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The Signs

You’re just sitting down with a good book or to catch the six o’clock news, when the shooting or stabbing pain in your feet you’ve overlooked before, is now undeniable. Unsure of the cause, you go into doctor mode and look for answers by Google.

Out for a nice walk, suddenly and without any real rhyme or reason, your legs feel like they’re cramping up, especially in your calves. You decide to sit on the nearest chair or bench, and the pain begins to disappear.  What’s going on here?

 

The Causes

Peripheral Neuropathy, or peripheral neuritis, is the result of damage or disease to your nervous system. Diabetes is generally considered the main cause, but exposure to toxins, injuries or infections can also be what causes the damage.  Neuropathy symptoms range from numbness, weakness, to a pins-and-needles sensation that is painful.  Left unattended, the pain can become acute.

Peripheral Artery Disease, or PAD, is a disease brought on by the narrowing of arteries that carry blood and affects the extremities of your body, such as legs and feet.  Being overweight, smoking or lack of exercise are all contributing factors to PAD.  To add to your frustration, when you move, pain begins and can grow worse and only seems to get better when you are at rest.  But this is a tell-tale sign of PAD. Left untreated, you may also see changes in skin color, or form noticeable sores. And plaque buildup can cause clots, which will further reduce the flow of blood, or may even block it altogether, which may result in a damaging infection or possible amputation.  

First Things First

Nearly all of us at some point or another will experience some sort of discomfort or minor aches and pains. Whether it’s muscle soreness, cramps, or a slight twinge, we usually pass these off with excuses, like, “I haven’t used those muscles in a while”, or, “I stepped wrong”, and so on.  We also attempt to reason it away with thoughts such as a lack of exercise, miscalculating the weight of a particular object and even age. 

However, when the pain can no longer be ignored, when it doesn’t completely go away on its own or with simple pain meds, it’s time to get serious about the root cause, because doing so will make the path taken to find relief become clearer.    

Begin making mental or written notes of such things as, when the pain occurs, what you are doing, does it go away, etc. And remember to be specific about what areas hurt.  

 

The Way Ahead

Share these notes with your doctor, or with us and we’ll go over your symptoms together. We’ll discuss things like your current lifestyle or any recent changes to your daily routine, and from that, forge a way forward to get you back to better health. 

With either neuropathy or PAD, a better, healthier you, is possible. Our staff has the experience, knowledge and expertise to get you there. Schedule an appointment with us, today!

 

If you have type 2 diabetes, you’ve likely thought about limb amputation. Diabetic patients are at increased risk of amputation, accounting for up to 85% of daily limb amputations worldwide. This increased threat is due to a variety of factors, making it difficult - if not impossible - to reduce the risk completely. 

 

Luckily, researchers continue to study the connection between diabetes and amputation in an effort to more accurately predict and prevent the threat. One recent study suggests that doctors should be paying special attention to a subgroup of diabetic patients: those with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).

 

How Diabetes and PAD affect amputation risk

 

There is no doubt a connection between diabetes and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). Patients with diabetes are more likely to develop PAD, as high levels of blood sugar cause changes in the blood chemistry and artery walls that contribute to plaque buildup. Not only are diabetic patients more likely to develop PAD, but diabetes is also known to increase the progression and severity of the disease.

 

Diabetes and PAD each carry an independent risk of limb amputation, and that risk increases significantly when the conditions co-exist. In fact, the risks are directly related: diabetes causes slow-healing sores and PAD, which blocks the blood flow needed to heal the open wounds from reaching the extremities. As blood flow is restricted, tissue damage occurs and sores may develop gangrene, a dangerous and deadly infection. Diabetic patients may also develop nerve damage that decreases pain, causing dangerous foot ulcers to go untreated until amputation is the only answer.

 

Unfortunately, the burden of amputations is severe, causing a significant rise in five-year mortality rates. For this reason, experts have begun conducting studies to determine variable risk factors that increase the threat of amputation in diabetic patients. One such study recently published in Diabetic Medicine developed a new risk score model that could help physicians better treat patients that present with major adverse limb events (MALEs). 

 

Predicting Diabetic Limb Amputation with Risk Scores

 

There are many factors that put you at an increased risk for amputation, including:

 

• Certain demographic factors (age, gender, ethnicity)

• Smoking

• Underlying conditions, especially diabetes or vascular diseases

• A history of foot ulcers or prior amputations

• Neuropathy status

 

In this new study, 14,752 patients with type 2 diabetes were assessed for major adverse limb amputations, including amputations, revascularization, and gangrene. By reviewing the data, experts were able to create a variable risk score model that ranges from 6 (low risk) to 96 (high risk).

 

The study found that peripheral artery disease was the leading risk factor for diabetic limb amputation. Negative outcomes were also more likely in patients over 50, males, and those with a history of smoking. Additional high-risk factors included coronary artery disease, unmanaged insulin use and a history of prior foot ulcers or amputations.

 

In the future, this new risk score model could be used to categorize patient risk of amputation based on the presence of certain individual factors, allowing doctors to provide more specialized care that reduces the threat of limb loss. 

 

Reducing Amputation Risk

 

By understanding the most prevalent risk factors, patients and physicians can take a more proactive role in preventing diabetic amputation. Doctors should take special care to closely monitor high-risk patients and manage underlying conditions like diabetes and peripheral artery disease. Patients should be taught to check themselves for dangerous foot ulcerations, make healthy lifestyle choices, and control their blood sugar levels.

 

If you have diabetes, being proactive about peripheral artery disease is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of amputation. Vascular Associates of South Alabama offers a wide range of PAD treatments and procedures to help you manage your condition and improve your overall health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

 

Wrinkles. Vision Loss. Dementia. There are some things we don’t expect to combat until we’re older. You probably wouldn’t think to ask about Peripheral Artery Disease at your 35-year check-up - but maybe you should.

 

While this common vascular disease doesn’t typically show up on your patient questionnaire until your late 50s, it can occur much earlier. More young adults than ever are showing early signs of the condition - and they experience an alarmingly poor prognosis. To help you be proactive at your next physical, here’s what you need to know about premature Peripheral Artery Disease.

 

What is Premature Peripheral Arterial Disease?

 

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries that carry blood away from the heart. This sticky substance causes the arteries to narrow and restricts blood flow to the extremities, especially the legs and feet. If left untreated, the condition can lead to limited mobility, limb pain and weakness, and even early death. 

 

PAD typically occurs later in life. When symptomatic PAD occurs in patients under the age of 50, it is known as Premature Peripheral Artery Disease. This early onset is rare - it occurs in less than one percent of the U.S. population, but it can also be extremely serious. Studies have shown that premature PAD is associated with a higher risk of rapid progression, limb loss, and death.

 

Signs of Premature Peripheral Artery Disease

 

PAD is easy to overlook, even in high-risk patients. The condition builds gradually and symptoms are often mild, causing many patients to go undiagnosed for several years. You may be suffering from Peripheral Artery Disease if you have:

 

• Limb pain that lessens or disappears with rest (Intermittent Claudication)

• Weakness or Numbness in the legs and/or feet

• Limb sores that are slow to heal

• Legs that are pale, blue-tinted, or cold to the touch

• Poor growth of toenails or leg hair

• Restlessness in the legs and feet, especially at night

 

Because PAD is uncommon in younger adults, it’s important to speak with your doctor if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or are at increased risk of premature PAD. 

 

Am I at risk of Premature Peripheral Artery Disease?

 

Although rare, premature PAD does occur under the right conditions. Those at risk of Premature Peripheral Artery Disease share many of the same risk factors as those in the condition’s typical onset range. 

 

The most common risk factors include:

 

• Smoking

• Family history of Vascular Disease

• Uncontrolled Diabetes

• Obesity and Physical Inactivity

• High Blood Pressure

• High Cholesterol

• High levels of Homocysteine, an amino acid that helps break down protein

 

Because PAD is uncommon in younger adults, it’s important to speak with a vascular specialist if you are at increased risk of premature PAD. A quick, non-invasive test known as an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) can provide a painless diagnosis by comparing the blood pressure levels in your hands and feet. If your ABI level is below 0.9, you may have a blocked artery that requires medical intervention.

 

How is Premature Peripheral Artery Disease Treated?

 

There are many treatment options available for patients with Peripheral Artery Disease. These can range from simple lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation and exercise to daily medications to control underlying conditions. In severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary. 

 

Because PAD is progressive, it is extremely important that the condition is managed as quickly as possible, especially in those with early onset. If you are at risk of Premature Peripheral Artery Disease, make an appointment with Vascular Associates of South Alabama. Our expert physicians and specialists will work with you in our state-of-the-art facility to develop a tailored treatment plan that manages your condition and extends your quality of life.  

Is it a stroke or a mini-stroke? Knowing the difference may be harder than it seems. Ischemic Strokes and Transient Ischemic Attacks - more commonly known as a “mini-stroke” - look and act almost identical. They share similar causes, symptoms, and risk factors, making it difficult for even medical professionals to tell them apart.

 

So what’s the difference between an ischemic stroke and a transient ischemic attack (TIA), and is one really better than the other? Read on to find out. 

 

Ischemic Stroke

 

Almost 75% of all strokes are ischemic strokes. An ischemic stroke occurs when a blockage in the brain’s artery causes blood flow to be restricted to an area of the brain. As brain tissue dies, critical functions like speech, memory, and muscle movement are impaired. An ischemic stroke is a medical emergency that can be fatal if not treated as soon as possible. 

 

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

 

A TIA is also caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain. Unlike an ischemic stroke, a TIA is temporary and resolves on its own without medical intervention. Blood flow typically returns to normal within a few minutes and symptoms resolve completely within 24 hours. TIA can cause permanent damage but typically does not have permanent symptoms. It can also lead to long-term cognitive problems including increased risk for dementia.

 

Stroke and TIA Symptoms

 

The short-term symptoms of an ischemic stroke and a TIA are very similar and can include:

 

• Muscle weakness

• Numbness or Tingling

• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech

• Loss of coordination

• Drooling

• Drooping of one side of the face

• Confusion

 

It’s important to note that it’s impossible to tell the difference between an ischemic stroke and a TIA from initial symptoms alone. Any combination of the above symptoms requires immediate medical attention. 

 

Stroke and TIA Prognosis

A stroke is a dangerous emergency that can cause permanent disability and even death. Most strokes can be successfully treated if diagnosed early, though most survivors suffer long-term consequences such as problems with speech and memory.

 

Because it resolves on its own very quickly, a TIA does not cause lasting brain damage or disability. That being said, a TIA is a warning sign you should never ignore. They often foreshadow future strokes, and about 12 percent of patients with a TIA die within a year. 

 

Treatment & Management

 

The treatment for an ischemic stroke involves removing the blockage through clot-busting medications or surgical intervention. Once treated, survivors must typically undergo physical therapy and rehabilitation to combat long-term disabilities. Stroke prevention measures including medications, regular testing, imaging studies, and surgery can reduce your risk of future strokes. 

 

TIA symptoms resolve on their own without the need for medical intervention. TIA patients will need to undergo a full medical evaluation to identify and manage any stroke risk factors. Treatment plans typically include medications to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, lifestyle changes, and surgical vessel repair if needed.

 

If you are at risk or have suffered a stroke, the expert physicians at Vascular Associates of South Alabama can help. We offer detailed stroke prevention and management treatments that can determine and reduce your risk of future strokes. Contact us today! 

Varicose veins. They’re all too common - affecting nearly 35% of the U.S. population - and often considered harmless, but leaving them untreated may not be as safe as you think.

Varicose veins occur when the valves in superficial veins weaken, causing blood to collect and pool in the area. This leads to veins that are twisted, enlarged, and dark in color. They most commonly occur in legs, though any superficial vein can become varicose.

Often, varicose veins are mostly a cosmetic concern. But if left untreated, they can cause physical symptoms that range from merely inconvenient to completely debilitating.

Signs and Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are most commonly recognized by their distinct appearance. Signs that you may have varicose veins include:

• Veins that appear swollen, raised and twisted beneath the skin
• Veins that are purplish or dark blue in color
• Spider veins, or mild red and blue-colored veins beneath the skin

In some cases, varicose veins can cause physical symptoms that range from mild to severe. Symptoms of varicose veins can include:

Pain and Discomfort. Varicose veins can cause burning, throbbing, aching, or itching in the legs. The pain usually increases with prolonged sitting or standing.

Limb Fatigue. Varicose veins may cause a heavy or tired feeling in the legs or limbs.

Bleeding. Varicose veins may rupture and bleed with mild trauma.

Skin Discoloration. The skin around a varicose vein may become swollen or discolored.

Skin Tears. Varicose veins may cause skin tears or ulceration in severe cases.

Phlebitis. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to superficial blood clots, a condition that causes pain, swelling, and redness in the vein or affected limb.

When To See A Doctor

Varicose veins are often harmless, but they may indicate a more serious underlying health condition like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). For this reason, new or severe varicose veins should always be evaluated by your physician. Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment and management plan for your varicose veins.

At Vascular Associates of South Alabama, we offer comprehensive and non-invasive treatment options for varicose veins, including sclerotherapy injections, endovenous laser treatment, phlebectomy procedures, and compression stockings. If you need help with your varicose veins, contact us today.

Hearing the words, “you have Peripheral Artery Disease” can be scary. As plaque builds up in the arteries, they begin to narrow and blood has a harder time flowing to important areas of the body. While a serious disease that requires prompt treatment, Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) has several treatment options that can manage the disease, treat your symptoms, and keep your arteries and blood flow working properly.

Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment Options

If you have PAD, your doctor will work with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan. It’s important to remember that which treatment option will work best for you depends on the severity and location of your PAD, as well as your unique health needs. Some patients may see excellent results from lifestyle changes alone, while others need additional (or different) types of care.

Lifestyle Changes

For mild PAD sufferers, lifestyle changes may be enough to slow or even halt the progression of your disease. Commonly prescribed lifestyle changes include:

• Stop smoking
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a healthy diet that’s low in fats and cholesterol
• Manage underlying conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure

Medications

There are many prescription medications available to treat the signs and symptoms of PAD and lower your risk for other health conditions. Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat underlying conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes. PAD patients may also receive medications to prevent blood clots, improve blood flow, reduce pain from claudication, and more.

Surgical Options

If your PAD cannot be controlled through lifestyle changes and medication alone, surgical intervention may be needed. The most common surgical procedures to treat PAD include:

Arterial Bypass. The most common treatment for PAD involves inserting a graft bypass to move blood around the blocked or narrowed artery. The graft may be made from a vessel taken from another part of your body or using synthetic (man-made) materials.

Angioplasty. A less invasive procedure known as an angioplasty involves using a catheter to thread a balloon into the affected artery. The balloon is then inflated, flattening the blockage into the artery wall and stretching the artery to improve blood flow. If needed, your doctor may insert a mesh or metallic stent to keep the artery open.

Clot Treatment. If a blood clot is completely restricting the blood flow in an artery, your doctor may insert clot-busting medication into the artery to dissolve the clot or may need to remove the clot completely.

If you’ve been diagnosed with or are at risk of Peripheral Artery Disease, the expert physicians at Vascular Associates of South Alabama can help! We specialize in high-tech, minimally invasive treatment options to diagnose, manage, and treat your PAD. Schedule an appointment to visit our on-site, state-of-the-art lab and outpatient facility today!

Many people associate aneurysms with a sudden rupture in the brain. But an aneurysm can occur in any blood vessel in the body that has a weak spot in the artery wall, causing it to stretch into a balloon-like bulge. When an aneurysm occurs in the aorta, the large blood vessel in the abdomen that supplies blood to the legs, it’s known as an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

As with the brain, an abdominal aneurysm can suddenly rupture, causing death. But many people have abdominal aneurysms for years without symptoms or medical problems. So you know what to watch for to prevent this silent killer, here are 5 facts you should know about abdominal aneurysms.

1. They are fairly common. According to The Society for Vascular Surgery, abdominal aneurysms affect 200,000 people per year in the United States. This makes them the 15th leading cause of death in the country.

2. There may be no symptoms. Most people experience no symptoms of an abdominal aneurysm until it ruptures, becoming a life-threatening emergency. The majority of abdominal aneurysms are found during routine check-ups or other medical exams.

If the aneurysm becomes large enough to press on surrounding organs, you may experience pain in the belly, chest, lower back, or legs. The pain may come and go or it may be constant. You may also experience a pulsating feeling in your abdomen.

If the aneurysm creates a blood clot that breaks off and impedes blood flow, you may experience discolored skin or sores on your feet and/or toes.

3. They can be caused by a variety of factors. There is no one cause of abdominal aneurysms. Weakness or tears in the aortic wall, genetic factors, and contributing medical conditions are the most common causes of abdominal aneurysms.

Those at greatest risk of abdominal aneurysms include:

• Smokers
• Those over 60
• Men
• Caucasians
• Those with a history of atherosclerosis
• Those with a family history of abdominal aneurysms (especially first-generation relatives)
• Those with other medical conditions including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, vascular disease, or connective tissue disorders

4. They can be deadly. Many abdominal aneurysms have no symptoms until they present with life or limb-threatening complications. Aneurysms that are undiagnosed or that grow unimpeded can rupture, causing severe internal bleeding and death.

A ruptured aneurysm presents with sudden and severe pain in the belly or back. You may also have an extreme drop in blood pressure or experience signs of shock. A ruptured aneurysm requires immediate medical attention.  Up to 80% of people who have a ruptured aneurysm do not survive to get to the hospital, and of those who do only 50% survive 1 month after hospital stay if able to be treated promptly.

5. There are effective treatments. If you’re diagnosed with an abdominal aneurysm, a vascular surgeon can help you determine a proper treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. The need for treatment depends on the size and anatomy of your aneurysm, your medical history, and how well you may tolerate a specific procedure.

Non-surgical treatments can be effective in slowing the growth of an aneurysm and are the first line of treatment for aneurysms under 5 centimeters. They include lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation and healthy diet and exercise plans, medications to control high blood pressure or high cholesterol, and routine monitoring of the aneurysm’s growth.

If your abdominal aneurysm is over 5 centimeters or is causing symptoms, surgical intervention may be needed. There are 2 main surgical treatments for abdominal aneurysms:

• An Open Repair procedure inserts an artificial graft through an incision in the abdomen to repair the aneurysm.
• An Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) uses specialized tools and X-ray guidance to insert a stent into the aneurysm through the femoral artery in the groin.

If you’re at risk or have been diagnosed with an abdominal aneurysm, schedule a vascular evaluation with Vascular Associates of South Alabama. Our renowned vascular surgeons are specially trained in the most innovative, effective aneurysm treatments as well as advanced methods for diagnosing them in their early stages. They will work closely with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan to fit your unique needs.

If you’re monitoring your vascular health, you’ve probably been told to keep a watch on your cholesterol. This sticky villain is a known health risk, responsible for clogged arteries, heart attacks, strokes, and a variety of other life-threatening problems.

But cholesterol is a natural substance that has both good and bad qualities - when it’s consumed appropriately. So how did this once-beneficial substance turn into the big bad wolf of vascular health? Let’s get back to the basics.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is an organic substance found in the walls of every human cell. It’s necessary for the production of hormones, Vitamin D, and substances that aid in proper digestion.

Your body produces all the cholesterol it needs, but cholesterol can also be found in foods that come from other animals such as eggs, milk, meat, and cheese. As these are common staples in every human diet, many people consume much more cholesterol than their body needs.

When your doctor runs a cholesterol test, they’re looking at two main types of cholesterol:

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL)

Also known as “good cholesterol”, HDLs act as scavengers that carry cholesterol through the bloodstream to the liver, where it’s expelled from the body. High levels of HDL can actually lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL)

The majority of cholesterol in your body is LDL or “bad cholesterol”. LDL can build up in your arteries as plaque, a condition known as atherosclerosis. High levels of LDL increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Why is High Cholesterol Dangerous?

Because it has a waxy, fat-like texture, consuming too much cholesterol can cause it to build up in the blood and arteries as plaque. Eventually, the arteries can narrow and harden, leading to a range of serious health problems such as vascular diseases (like coronary artery disease or peripheral artery disease), stroke, or heart attack.

What causes High Cholesterol?

Most cases of high cholesterol are caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, though genetics, age, and race can also put you at higher risk. The most common causes of high cholesterol include:

• Smoking
• A high-fat diet
• Lack of physical activity

How Can I Lower My Cholesterol?

Ideally, your total cholesterol level should be less than 200, with at least 60 HDL and less than 130 LDL. If your blood test shows high levels, your doctor may prescribe a combination of lifestyle changes and medications to lower and control your cholesterol.

Helpful lifestyle changes can include:

• Eating a healthy diet. Heart-healthy diets are low in trans and saturated fats and high in vegetables, fruits, lean meats, and whole grains.
• Weight management. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise can lower your LDL levels.
• Quitting smoking. Tobacco lowers your HDL levels. The sooner you stop smoking, the faster your body can build helpful HDL to carry cholesterol to the liver.

If lifestyle changes alone can’t control your cholesterol, your doctor may also prescribe medication. Common medications for cholesterol management can include statins, bile acid sequestrants, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and others. Your doctor will work with you to decide the best type of medication for you.

If you’re struggling with high cholesterol or other vascular health problems, the expert physicians at Vascular Associates of South Alabama can help. We work closely with our patients to develop treatment plans to treat and manage your condition and keep you in optimal health. Contact us today for an appointment.

Most people alive today know someone who has experienced a stroke. This common but devastating medical condition occurs when blood flow to the brain is restricted, resulting in cell death and potentially permanent brain damage.

A stroke is a serious medical emergency, and they’re all too common. In the United States, a person experiences a stroke every 40 seconds; of those, one in 20 will die. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the symptoms of a stroke - when timing is crucial, knowing how to identify the condition and call for help can save yours or someone else’s life. Here’s what you should know about identifying and reacting to common symptoms of a stroke.

Common Symptoms of a Stroke: Act FAST

One of the most recognized acronyms in the world, F-A-S-T is also a mnemonic that can help you remember the signs and symptoms of a stroke. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, follow these steps:

F - FACE. Ask them to smile. Does one side of their face droop or seem hard to move?

Facial drooping is one of the most commonly recognized symptoms of a stroke. It occurs when the muscles that control the face are damaged in the brain, causing facial paralysis and the characteristic ‘drooping’ appearance. Depending on the type of stroke, this can be due to a lack of oxygen or excess pressure caused by bleeding in the brain.

A - ARMS. Ask them to raise both arms. Do they have trouble lifting them to the same height? Does one arm drift downward?

The same paralysis that causes one-sided facial drooping leads to arm weakness during a stroke. A person suffering a stroke will be unable to hold both arms to the same height. They may also struggle to squeeze your hand or a ball on one side of their body.

S - SPEECH. Ask them to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or strange? Do they have trouble repeating the phrase?

Lack of oxygen to the brain can cause a stroke victim to become extremely confused and disoriented. This often results in slurred or strange speech patterns. They may not know they are speaking abnormally, or they may not be able to speak at all. At this stage, it’s crucial to keep them calm and reassure them that you’re seeking medical attention.

T - TIME. If the person is experiencing any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1.

Any symptom of a stroke means it’s time to call 9-1-1 immediately. The best treatments are only effective if administered in the first 3 hours of the first stroke symptoms. This means that seeking prompt treatment is crucial in preventing long-term brain damage from a stroke.

If possible, note the time the first stroke symptom appears. This will help medical professionals decide on the best course of treatment for the stroke patient.

Even if the symptom(s) appears to resolve, don’t delay - call 9-1-1 immediately. This could be a sign of a transient ischemic attack (TIA), an early warning sign of a stroke that needs immediate medical attention.

Other Stroke Symptoms

The F-A-S-T mnemonic is a good way to spot the most common and obvious signs of a stroke, but there are other symptoms you should watch out for. Those include:

Trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

Trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination.

Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face or limbs, especially on one side of the body

If you or someone you know is at risk of stroke, the expert physicians at Vascular Associates of South Alabama can help. We offer detailed stroke prevention and management treatments that can analyze and reduce your risk of future strokes. Contact us today!

A stroke is one of the most widely known - and feared - medical conditions in the world today. You probably know the F-A-S-T pneumonic to identify a stroke, aptly named for the importance of quick medical intervention. But you may not know much about carotid artery disease, the silent killer that contributes to nearly 20% of the 700,000 strokes that will occur this year.

So you can be prepared, here are 5 things to know about carotid artery disease (CAD).

Carotid artery disease restricts blood flow to the brain

When your doctor places a hand on the side of your neck to feel for a pulse, they’re feeling your carotid artery. These major arteries are located on either side of your neck and feed blood to your head and brain. Carotid artery disease occurs when a build-up of fatty deposits known as plaque causes a blockage in your carotid artery, restricting blood flow to the brain.

The first sign of carotid artery disease may be a transient ischemic attack (TIA)

Carotid artery disease develops slowly and may show no noticeable symptoms until you experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. A TIA is a temporary restriction of blood flow to the brain.

Symptoms of a TIA include:

• Numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or slurred speech
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Dizziness
• Trouble walking or loss of balance

The symptoms of a TIA closely resemble that of a stroke but do not last as long. If you experience any sign of a TIA or stroke, seek medical attention immediately even if you begin to feel better.

Carotid artery disease increases your risk of stroke

Because carotid artery disease restricts blood flow to the brain, it significantly increases your risk of stroke. A stroke deprives your brain of oxygen and can result in permanent brain damage or death in minutes; it is the leading cause of both in the United States.

Carotid artery disease can cause a stroke in two ways. A piece of plaque can break off and become lodged in the brain’s blood vessels, causing an embolism. Less commonly, CAD can become so severe that the carotid artery is blocked completely.

You may be at risk of carotid artery disease

There are risk factors that contribute to a patient’s risk of carotid artery disease. Some are hereditary and health-related, while others are attributed to specific lifestyle choices.

The risk factors for CAD include:

• Smoking increases your blood pressure and heart rate and can irritate the lining of your arteries, causing damage that leads to plaque.
• High Blood Pressure causes increased pressure on your artery walls, causing weakness and damage that contribute to CAD.
• High cholesterol is a major risk factor for carotid artery disease.
• Diabetes affects your body’s ability to process blood sugar and fats, putting you at a higher risk for high blood pressure and plaque build-up.
• Obesity increases your risk of diabetes, carotid artery disease, and high blood pressure.
• Older age causes your arteries to stiffen and become more susceptible to damage.
• Family history. If someone in your family has had carotid artery disease you may be at higher risk yourself.

Lifestyle changes can prevent carotid artery disease

Good news! There are lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk and even manage carotid artery disease. They include:

• Don’t smoke. If you use tobacco, it’s best to quit now. If you’re not a smoker, don’t pick up the habit.
• Exercise regularly. Physical inactivity contributes to obesity and carotid artery disease. Get the recommended amount of exercise each week.
• Eat a balanced diet. A diet rich in fruit and vegetables helps you maintain a healthy weight and gives you essential vitamins and nutrients that may prevent strokes and TIAs.
• Limit fat and cholesterol. This will reduce your risk of atherosclerosis.
• Reduce alcohol consumption.
• Manage health conditions such as diabetes and high cholesterol.

If you’re at high risk for carotid artery disease or have experienced a stroke (or stroke-like symptoms) in the past, it’s important to see a vascular specialist like those at Vascular Associates of South Alabama. A vascular physician can help you control the disease through lifestyle changes, medical management, and surgical treatments to keep you in optimal health. If you need to speak to someone about carotid artery disease, contact us today!