Poor Circulation Treatment in Laurel, MD

Who Is Normally Affected By Poor Circulation?

Typically, people who are over 40, overweight, have diabetes and have sedentary lifestyles are at increased for poor circulation. Because plaque build-up, blood clots, and narrowed blood vessels can lead to poor circulation and the complications that come with it, people who don’t take action to prevent these causes may have to seek treatment.

How Is Poor Circulation Diagnosed?

Poor circulation can be diagnosed through a physical exam, your medical history, and tests. Some of these tests may include ultrasounds, pressure testing, ABI tests, CT scans, stress tests, and blood tests. It’s always better to be informed about your condition so that your provider can treat it than to ignore your symptoms and leave potential health risks untreated. If you are experiencing any symptoms of poor circulation, consult your provider immediately.

What Happens If I Leave My Poor Circulation Untreated?

Poor circulation comes from a lack of oxygen to vital organs in the body, including the brain and the heart. In serious cases where blood clots and blood vessels need to be addressed or removed, patients may have to undergo surgery. However, if left untreated, patients with poor circulation may experience:

• Loss of feeling in the limbs
• Chest pain
• Blood clots
• Skin ulcers
• Cardiovascular failure
• Infection
• Cramping
• Cognitive dysfunction

How Can I Keep My Circulation Flowing?

It’s important to keep your circulation flowing and to do things that allow oxygen to flow equally throughout your body, especially if you are over the age of 40 or overweight. To reduce the risk of poor circulation, you can do the following:

• Exercise regularly
• Eat a balanced diet
• Implement more physical activity in your day
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit smoking and avoid smoking
• Managing high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• Managing diabetes

What Are the Common Symptoms of Poor Circulation?

Common symptoms of poor circulation include:

• Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
• Cold extremities, especially fingers and toes
• Swelling in the lower extremities, including the ankles and feet
• Muscle cramps, particularly in the legs
• Skin color changes, like a bluish or pale hue
• Slow-healing wounds or sores, especially on the legs or feet
• Hair loss on the legs or feet

Have you noticed any of these symptoms? If so, contact a professional at Minimally Invasive Vascular Center to schedule a consultation.

What Treatment Options Exist for Peripheral Arterial Disease? 

Minimally Invasive Vascular Center offers several treatment options for poor circulation and peripheral arterial disease. Listed below are some of our most effective solutions.

Arteriogram & Atherectomy

An arteriogram is an imaging test that visualizes arteries using contrast dye and X-rays to identify blockages. Atherectomy involves inserting a catheter with a rotating blade or laser to remove plaque from the artery walls.

This combination of treatments helps vascular surgeons diagnose and address peripheral artery disease. They can do this by restoring blood flow and reducing symptoms like pain and claudication.

Balloon Angioplasty

To perform a balloon angioplasty procedure, a surgeon inserts a catheter with a small balloon into a narrowed or blocked artery. Once in place, the surgeon inflates the balloon. It compresses the plaque against the artery walls and widens the vessel.

This procedure improves blood flow. As a result, it relieves PAD symptoms such as leg pain and cramps.

Aneurysm Repair

An aneurysm is an abnormal bulge in the blood vessel wall. This bulge often occurs because of weakness in the vessel wall.

Aneurysm repair treats weakened artery sections that bulge outward. The procedure can involve open surgery or endovascular repair, where a stent graft is inserted to reinforce the artery wall.

This surgery prevents aneurysm rupture, which can be life-threatening. It also restores normal blood flow.

How Often Should I Get Screened for Poor Circulation if I Have Risk Factors?

Generally, a vascular screening is recommended every 3-5 years. However, the exact frequency will vary and depend on your specific risk factors and health. 

For individuals with more significant risk factors or symptoms, such as leg pain, numbness, or slow-healing wounds, more frequent screenings may be necessary. Your healthcare provider at Minimally Invasive Vascular Center will assess your individual risk profile and recommend an appropriate screening schedule.

Remember that early detection through regular screening allows for timely intervention. This can prevent complications and improve long-term vascular health.