Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening in Waco, Tx
The Best Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening in Waco, Tx: Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a condition that occurs when the blood vessels outside of your heart and brain become narrowed or blocked. This can lead to a number of serious problems, including stroke, heart attack, and limb loss.
PVD is a very common condition, affecting an estimated 10-20% of all adults over the age of 40. However, it is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. This is because PVD usually develops slowly and does not cause any symptoms in the early stages.
This is why screening for PVD is so important. Early detection and treatment of PVD can help to prevent serious complications.
What is peripheral Vascular Disease Screening?

A peripheral vascular disease screening is a diagnostic tool used to determine if a patient has peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD is a condition in which the arteries become narrowed or blocked, causing reduced blood flow to the extremities.
Screenings for PAD typically involve an ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, which compares the blood pressure in the ankles to the blood pressure in the arms. A lower ABI score indicates a higher likelihood of PAD. Other tests that may be used to diagnose PAD include Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, and MRI angiography.
Who should get a peripheral artery disease Screening in Waco, Tx?
Screening for peripheral artery disease (PAD) is recommended for adults aged 40 years and older who have one or more risk factors for the condition. These risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a family history of PAD. Screening involves a simple test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI) that measures the blood pressure in your ankles and compares it to the blood pressure in your brachial artery (the blood vessel in your arm). A low ABI score indicates that you may have PAD.
What are the five classic peripheral signs of PVD?
The five classic peripheral signs of PVD are:
Claudication
This is when the patient experiences pain in the legs during activities such as walking.
Intermittent claudication
This is when the patient experiences claudication symptoms that come and go.
Ischemic ulcers
This is when the patient experiences open sores or ulcers on the feet or legs due to poor blood circulation.
Gangrene
This is when the tissue in the feet or legs dies due to poor blood circulation.
Amputation
In severe cases of PVD, the patient may need to have a foot or leg amputated.
How do I prepare for a Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening procedure?
To prepare for a PVDS, you should:
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 3 hours before the test.
- Talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be temporarily discontinued before the test.
- Avoid smoking for at least 3 hours before the test.
What happens during the Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening procedure?

A peripheral vascular disease screening is a procedure to check for blockages in the arteries that supply blood to your extremities. This screening may be done using an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create an image of the arteries, or a CT scan, which uses X-rays to create an image.
During the test, a small, hand-held device will be used to measure the blood flow in your extremities. The test is performed by inserting a small catheter into an artery in the arm or leg and then injecting a contrast agent. This agent allows the physician to see the arteries and measure the blood flow. The test is painless and takes about 30 minutes to complete.
Risks and Side effects of Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening procedure
The risks and side effects of peripheral vascular disease screening procedures are typically minimal. However, as with any medical procedure, there is always a slight risk of complications. The most common side effect is discomfort at the site of the needle stick. Other potential risks and side effects include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Nerve damage
Overall, the risks and side effects of peripheral vascular disease screening procedures are very rare and usually minor. However, as with any medical procedure, it is important to discuss all potential risks and side effects with your doctor before proceeding.
Cost of Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening in Waco, Tx
The cost of peripheral vascular disease screening in Waco, TX can vary depending on the type of screening test and the facility where the test is performed. Some common tests for peripheral vascular disease are Doppler ultrasound, angiography, and CT angiography. The cost of these tests can range from $100 to $1,000, depending on the facility and the type of test.
FAQS
What are the warning signs of peripheral vascular disease?
Peripheral vascular disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels outside of the heart and brain. The most common symptom of peripheral vascular disease is pain in the legs or feet when walking or at rest. Other symptoms may include:
- Sores or ulcers on the feet or legs that do not heal
- A feeling of coldness in the legs or feet
- Numbness or weakness in the legs or feet
- Hair loss on the feet or legs
- Changes in toenail or fingernail color
- Erectile dysfunction
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor so that the cause can be determined and proper treatment can be started.
What happens to a person with PVD?
A person with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) has a narrowing of the blood vessels that carry blood to their extremities. This can cause pain in the legs and feet when walking, as well as problems with wound healing and infection. In severe cases, it can lead to amputation. PVD is a serious condition that can be disabling, so it is important to seek medical help if you think you may have it.
How long can you live with peripheral vascular disease?
It is a progressive condition that can lead to serious health complications, including amputation. While there is no cure for PVD, early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life. The average life expectancy for someone with PVD is 5-7 years. However, this varies depending on the severity of the disease, overall health, and access to care. With proper treatment and self-care, many people with PVD live much longer and enjoy a good quality of life.
Is PVD curable?
PVD, or peripheral vascular disease, is a type of cardiovascular disease that affects the blood vessels outside of the heart. While there is no cure for PVD, there are treatments available that can help improve symptoms and quality of life. These treatments may include lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery. With proper management, people with PVD can live long and healthy lives.
What does PVD pain feel like?
PVD pain can differ from person to person, but it is typically described as a sharp, stabbing pain that comes and goes. It is often worse with activity and can be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness. If you are experiencing PVD pain, it is important to consult with a medical professional to determine the best course of treatment.
When should I screen my PAD?
If you are over the age of 40 and have any of the following risk factors for PAD, you should screen for the condition: diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a family history of the condition. A simple screening test for PAD involves checking your ankle-brachial index (ABI). This test compares the blood pressure in your ankles with the blood pressure in your upper arms. A lower-than-normal ABI may be a sign of PAD.
How can you prevent peripheral vascular disease?
There are many ways you can prevent peripheral vascular disease or PVD. First, you can quit smoking. Smoking is the leading cause of PVD, so this is a very important step. You can also exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet to maintain good blood flow and prevent plaque buildup in your arteries. Additionally, you should control your blood sugar if you have diabetes and monitor your blood pressure.
Best Clinic to Get Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening in Waco, Tx

If you’re looking for the best place to get peripheral vascular disease screening in Waco, TX, look no further than Lonestar Heart & Wellness. Our team of expert cardiovascular doctors and specialists is dedicated to providing the highest quality care possible, and our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the latest technology to ensure accurate and reliable results.