Roughly six million people have asymptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD), according to a study published in “Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases.” This can be a dangerous situation because PAD can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated.
One way to mitigate the risks of complications from PAD is to get vascular screening tests regularly. USA Vascular Centers offer comprehensive screenings with an accurate diagnosis. If you have PAD or at risk for PAD, our vascular specialists can create a personalized treatment plan to lower your risks.
In this blog, we’ll discuss vascular screenings, when you may need them, and how they can benefit you in the long run.
What is a Vascular Screening Test?
A vascular screening is designed to evaluate the health of your arteries and veins. The screening checks for blockages or plaque build-up that can lead to serious vascular conditions such as a heart attack or stroke. Most screenings involve non-invasive techniques and use advanced imaging technology to detect signs of disease or complications.
Why are Routine Vascular Screenings Important?
Scheduling routine vascular screenings can help detect vascular conditions early on and reduce your risk of developing serious complications. If PAD is detected during the screening, a vascular doctor will create a custom treatment plan to help reduce symptoms and prevent your condition from worsening. Depending on the stage of the disease, this plan may include medical treatments along with lifestyle adjustments.
Should I get a Vascular Screening?
Routine vascular health screens are recommended every three to five years for anyone with the following PAD risk factors.
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Over the age of 50
- Family history of vascular disease
- Smokers and ex-smokers
If you have diabetes or a family history of vascular disease, you’ll want to consider routine vascular screenings once you’re over the age of 30. If you don’t have any risk factors, it’s recommended to start routine screenings after you turn 50.
Common Vascular Screening Tests
During your consultation, a vascular specialist will discuss your risk factors, symptoms, and health concerns. A few common screenings the vascular doctor may recommend include:
- Ankle-brachial index (ABI): Compares the blood pressure in your ankle versus your arm to detect signs of PAD.
- Ultrasound: Uses medical imaging to identify blockages and blood clots in the arteries or veins.
- Angiography: A contrast dye and an X-ray are used to detect blockages or aneurysms in blood vessels.
Once the vascular tests are completed, a vascular specialist will review the results and provide personalized recommendations based on your diagnosis.
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Benefits of Routine Vascular Screening Tests
Scheduling a routine vascular screening with your vascular specialist can offer several benefits, including:
- Early Detection: Different vascular health screens can help you detect PAD in the early stages. Early detection can help improve your quality of life and prevent your symptoms from worsening.
- Check for Blockages: Vascular screenings check for plaque build-up, aneurysms, and other blockages in the veins and arteries. Early detection of blockages can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Lower Health Risks: Routine vascular screenings can detect serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Some patients may not experience typical symptoms, making these conditions harder to diagnose without proper screenings. Identifying vascular issues early on helps prevent severe complications such as critical limb ischemia (CLI) or pulmonary embolism.
- Peace of Mind: Being proactive about your vascular health through routine screenings can provide peace of mind about your health.
Schedule a Vascular Screening at USA Vascular Centers
Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms of PAD, a vascular health screening is a preventative step for maintaining your health. The experts at USA Vascular Centers are here to provide routine vascular screenings and help you understand your vascular health. Schedule a consultation online or call us at 888.773.2193 to take a proactive step toward maintaining your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a vascular screening and a heart screening?
While the heart is part of the cardiovascular system, vascular screenings focus on the health of the arteries and veins. Heart screenings focus on heart health and function.
Does insurance cover vascular screenings?
Yes, most insurance plans cover routine vascular screenings. Our online scheduling tool can also help you verify your insurance coverage and find a location nearby.
