Three Reasons to Request a Free PAD Screening in Kalamazoo

If you take your health seriously – and who doesn’t? – you’ve likely already considered scheduling a free PAD screening in Kalamazoo. PAD, or peripheral artery disease, occurs when the normally clear, smooth arteries are blocked by a substance called plaque. Comprised of cholesterol, fibrous tissue, and calcium, plaque causes arteries to become constricted, resulting in less oxygen reaching the legs. Untreated, PAD can lead to a host of issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and loss of limbs. In today’s post, we’re going to look at three reasons why you should consider requesting a screening from Advanced Vascular Surgery.

1. Risk Factors

If you have any of the risk factors for PAD, you’ll want to get tested. These risk factors include a family history of heart disease or stroke, diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. In addition to this, if you are a regular or heavy smoker – either presently or in the past – you’ll want to schedule a screening sooner rather than later.

2. Warning Signs

Peripheral artery disease often comes with a number of warning signs. While this isn’t always the case, you will want to speak to your doctor if you are experiencing pain in your legs that subsides during rest, cool or clammy skin, persistent wounds on the feet and legs, or leg pain, burning, tingling, or numbness.

3. Family History

If you have a family history of heart disease or stroke, you could be at higher risk for peripheral artery disease. If this is the case, you’ll want to schedule a PAD screening in Kalamazoo as early as possible, so that your doctor can learn your history and develop appropriate treatment and prevention plans.

At Advanced Vascular Surgery, our aim is to help our patients improve their quality of life. If you would like the peace of mind of having been tested for peripheral artery disease, we encourage you to reach out to us today to schedule your free visit.