Vascular Devastation is Rampant In Our Community

March 20, 2012 - PRLog -- (Laurel, MD ) – Eight to 12 million Americans especially African Americans are at risk for peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This vascular disease can lead to the loss of a leg.

According to estimates by the United States National Institutes of Health, five percent of Americans over the age of 50 have PAD.

“Most people are unaware of PAD,” said Dr. Jeffery Dormu, Vascular/Endovascular Surgeon “There are few symptoms in the early stages of PAD. Later, there may be discomfort or pain in the legs when walking.”

Because of the lack of symptoms, it’s important to receive PAD testing for persons who:

•   Are age 50 or older, particularly males
•   Experience hypertension (high blood pressure)
•   Have diabetes
•   Smoke
•   Have high cholesterol
•   Are obese
•   Do not exercise
•   Have a family history of vascular problems.

Healthy peripheral arteries are smooth and unobstructed. With age, plaque - a sticky substance made up mostly of fat and cholesterol – builds up in arteries and narrows the passageway.  If left untreated, PAD can cause:

•   Pain or aching in the legs
•   Difficulty walking
•   Resting pain in the foot at night in bed
•   Non-healing sores or infections in the toes or feet
•   Limb loss.

“In addition to these serious arterial conditions, persons with PAD are more likely to suffer heart attacks and stroke,” said Dr. Jeffery Dormu, Vascular/Endovascular Surgeon “Maintaining good vascular health is a matter of life and limb.”

The diagnosis of PAD can be established and its severity confirmed by a simple,
non-invasive Doppler examination. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive angioplasty/stenting, or open bypass surgery. Vascular surgeons are experts in all vascular treatment options.

To learn about PAD and other vascular diseases, visit www.MinimallyInvasiveVascularCenters.com or call 301-497-1590 for a Vascular Consultation today.

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The Minimally Invasive Vascular Centers is a Vascular/Endovascular Surgery Center located in Metropolitan Washington, DC.