Varicose veins can occur in almost anyone; in fact, they affect up to 35% of Americans. Varicose veins— large, bulging veins in the legs that can cause pain, itching and swelling—can be more likely to occur during pregnancy. Causes As progesterone causes blood to pool in the lower body, and a growing uterus compresses some…
Many Vascular Procedures are Offered Right in Our Vascular Lab
Vascular conditions affect the veins and arteries, which bring oxygen to every living cell in your body. In most cases, vascular conditions are highly treatable, often without surgery. Patients with vascular conditions should consult a vascular surgeon, even when surgery is not needed. Vascular surgeons specialize in treatments of virtually every kind of vascular condition….
What to do about Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins Treatment Options Among other things, our veins are responsible for bringing blood back to the heart, sometimes working against gravity. When we walk, the muscles in our legs squeeze the veins and help blood flow back into the heart, assisted by a series of valves in the veins. With varicose veins (and with…
P.A.D. Awareness Month
September is Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) awareness month Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) can be silent until a person exerts themselves. After walking a short distance a person may start to experience tightness, pain and/or fatigue in their calves, thighs or buttock. As PAD in a person worsens they may notice their feet feeling cold and…
Stroke Screenings and Carotid Artery Stenosis
The carotid arteries in your neck provide the main supply of blood to the brain. A buildup of plaque in these arteries, narrows the artery, or carotid artery stenosis (CAS), can increase possibility of a stroke. If you have an increased risk for a stroke, carotid artery screening is a an easy noninvasive ultrasound procedure…
COVID-19 UPDATES
COVID-19 Symptoms Patient If you are experiencing fever (over 100.4), cough, shortness of breath, or have been exposed to a COVID-19 patient, please contact our scheduling department at 231.739.9461 to reschedule your appointment. Updated Visitor Policy To respect social distancing and patient privacy, visitors are discouraged at this time. If necessary to bring a visitor…
What You Need to Know About Peripheral Vascular Disease (PAD)
Peripheral Vascular Disease, or PVD, is a vascular condition where the blood vessels outside of the brain and heart restrict and narrow, decreasing blood flow and increasing the risk of blockage and blood vessel spasms. Learn more about this condition, risk factors and treatment options for PVD. Types of PVD PVD is most commonly caused…
The ABC’s of AAA – Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a serious vascular condition that fortunately, is manageable with surgery. The aorta is the largest artery in your body, running from your heart through your abdomen and to the legs. Wear on this artery over time can cause a rupture, resulting in massive internal bleeding and pain. Here’s what you…
Defense Against Diabetic Complications
Diabetes can be difficult to manage and lifestyle adjustments can often feel overwhelming to patients. But there is a reason behind the recommended diet and exercise. Farther down the road, larger complications can arise such as nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, hearing impairment and amputation. In order to prevent these complications, MSA has recommended…
Spotting the Signs of a Stroke
There is some confusion about the signs of a stroke. In fact, many people experience them without realizing it – a dangerous situation since strokes can cause permanent damage to the brain. It’s important to know if you are at risk for a stroke and learn the symptoms as well as the proper course of…