Archives for BRVSC

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur when you have diabetes. It affects mostly the feet and legs first, but can also affect the hands and arms. If left untreated, diabetic neuropathy can develop serious complications, including limb loss, hypoglycemia, low blood pressure and joint deterioration. Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy The most common form of diabetic neuropathy is called peripheral neuropathy. Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are worse at night and may include: Numbness or temperature changes Tingling or burning sensations in the extremities Sharp pains or cramps in the extremities Increased and extreme sensitivity
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What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Affecting more than three million Americans every year, atrial fibrillation (also called afib) is a common form of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) that can significantly affect many areas of your body, including your blood vessels and circulatory system. Atrial fibrillation occurs when the two upper chambers of the heart (the atria) fail to beat in sync with the two lower chambers (the ventricles) of the heart, causing an irregular heartbeat. As a result, this irregularity can pose a major risk for stroke and heart failure. Atrial fibrillation comes in three different forms: Occasional – The symptoms of occasional afib can come
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Peripheral Angioplasty and Stenting

Peripheral angioplasty is a nonsurgical procedure used to widen or reopen narrowed or obstructed peripheral arteries or veins. Some of these angioplasty procedures will utilize stent (a small, wire mesh tube) placement as a supplemental treatment option that can be done during angioplasty. Benefits of angioplasty and stenting Peripheral angioplasty and stenting are procedures that can significantly reduce the risks associated with plaque buildup in the arteries and veins, especially in severe cases of atherosclerosis. These benefits can include: Decreasing signs and symptoms of blocked arteries and veins Significantly reducing chances of death or damage to the valves as the
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Understanding Thrombectomy and Embolectomy

Thrombectomy and embolectomy are life-saving procedures mostly performed in emergency situations. The terms embolectomy and thrombectomy are sometimes used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two. To understand how a thrombectomy or embolectomy is performed, you must first understand why they are done. Sometimes, due to various factors like disease, blood clots can form in the blood vessels. A thrombus is usually a solid-mass stationary clot. An embolus is when part or all of that clot is dislodged and begins to travel through the circulatory system. Essentially, an embolus is a moving thrombus. These clots can pose serious
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Understanding Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm? An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) occurs when the lower part of the abdominal aorta becomes swollen and enlarged. In many cases, AAA will display no symptoms, making it a potentially dangerous condition if left untreated. The abdominal aorta is the largest artery, and it supplies oxygen-rich blood to the lower part of the body. If a weak area of the abdominal aorta expands or bulges, it can burst, causing severe internal bleeding and death. Immediate medical attention is crucial during this time. How serious is an abdominal aortic aneurysm? The small or slower-growing aneurysms
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Top 10 Heart-Healthy Foods

Many things can contribute to good vascular health, but a key factor is what you put into your body. The food you eat can greatly affect the way your heart works. Since your heart is one of the most important organs in your body, it’s best you feed it only the finest. Omega-3 Fatty Acids We all know that too much fat is bad for you, but there are good fats out there that your body needs. Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fats that help improve heart function. They regulate blood clotting, reduce cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and prevent inflammation. Omega-3s
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The Facts About Carotid Artery Disease

The carotid arteries are the two large blood vessels that extend down your neck and provide necessary blood to the head and brain. Carotid artery disease begins when a buildup of plaque narrows the artery, causing a decrease of blood flow to the brain. The plaque initially has a wax-like consistency and can harden over time, making it hard for blood to run through the vessel. This hardened plaque can break off and cause clots, or travel to smaller arteries. The plaques can also buildup until there is a complete blockage in the artery. In either case, a stroke or
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Exercise Can Help Improve Your Vascular Health

We all know exercise is paramount in a healthy lifestyle. Most of us believe that it will tone our bodies, keep our weight down, and make us stronger; but did you know it can also improve your vascular health? What is Vascular Health? Vascular health is about strengthening your heart and lungs so they perform at their optimal levels. After the age of 55 we are naturally at a higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and peripheral artery disease (P.A.D.). When we live a sedentary life, these problems become even more of a risk. Obesity
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Heart Disease Is Treatable and Preventable

Heart disease, also called cardiovascular disease, is a term used to define several types of diseases that affect the cardiovascular system in your body. In Baton Rouge, Louisiana heart disease can include cardiac disease, vascular diseases affecting the brain and kidneys and peripheral artery disease. According to the American Heart Association heart disease can be attributed to atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds along the arterial walls constricting blood flow in the body. A clot can form when the arteries narrow, causing any number of life threatening issues such as heart attacks and strokes. Symptoms of heart disease can
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How Do You Know If You Have Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease affects numerous individuals in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana area. 1 in 20 Americans over 50 has P.A.D. and you may not even know you have it. This disease occurs when arteries become constricted, causing reduced blood flow to your extremities, especially the legs. Losing blood flow to these areas can cause pain and slowed movement. It can also indicate a large problem in which fatty deposits are blocking your arteries, which can affect other areas besides the extremities. Your heart and brain can be damaged if this disease goes untreated. Fortunately, there are steps you can take
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