We know how important walking can be for overall health. A new study now shows it can also help reduce leg pain in patients with Peripheral Artery Disease. 12 million Americans have PAD and 4 million of those patients suffer with leg pain.
A study released in July’s Journal of the American Medical Association, followed nearly 200 patients on a 6-month intervention program that included part of the group walking 5 days a week for 50 minutes. Patients also spent one day a week in a support group for 45 minutes.
Most walkers increased speed and endurance. The results showed that supervised walking on the treadmill improves PAD symptoms as much or more than surgery.
Researchers believe the support group combined with the exercise was a key part of patient success. Those not assigned to exercise — who attended weekly health lectures instead — actually grew weaker, walking 30 feet less than when they started.
At South Florida Vascular Associates we encourage a healthy lifestyle as part of the overall treatment for PAD. Our expert interventional radiologists develop a specific treatment plan for patients with vascular problems. At SFVA we choose to treat patients in minimally invasive ways whenever possible.
The minimally invasive techniques used by interventional radiologists often replace open surgical procedures. This means smaller incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery time for patients.
At South Florida Vascular Associates many of our patients are treated right in out Coconut Creek office in a sophisticated endovascular surgery suite – one of the first of its kind in the country. If you’re suffering from any vascular disease, the doctors at SFVA can help. We have 3 office locations for your convenience. Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach and Plantation. Contact us today for an appointment - (954) 725-4141.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Monday, August 12, 2013
Peripheral Artery Disease: A Global Crisis
The number of people with Peripheral Artery Disease worldwide has skyrocketed. In 2000, there were 164 million cases reported and in 2010 the number jumped to 202 million. That's more than a 23% increase in just 10 years according to a new study published in the journal The Lancet.
Peripheral Artery Disease occurs when fatty deposits build up and block the arteries, restricting blood flow and oxygen to the legs and feet. It increases the risk of heart attack and stroke and can lead to difficulty walking and amputation.
PAD often goes undiagnosed. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, hypertension and cholesterol.
The new study from the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom suggests 1 in 10 over the age of 70 is affected by PAD - 1 in 6 over the age of 80.
Longer life expectancy and changing lifestyles appears to be reasons for the increase. And it seems income plays a role in who is affected. PAD increased 13% in high income countries and nearly 29% in the rest of the world.
The findings are a call to action. There is an urgent need to assess treatment and create prevention strategies says the study’s lead author Gerry Fowkes. When a condition affects as many as 200 million people a global strategic plan must be developed.
At South Florida Vascular Associates we develop a specific plan to treat vascular conditions for each individual patient. Our expert interventional radiologists focus on vascular problems and treating them in minimally invasive ways.
See Dr. Swee's interview on WPLG-TV about a new device for Peripheral Artery Disease. Drs. William Julien, Warren Swee, and Curtis Anderson are board certified endovascular surgeons at South Florida Vascular Associates. They are experts in the field of interventional radiology, one of the fastest growing areas of medicine. The minimally invasive techniques used by interventional radiologists often replace open surgical procedures. This means smaller incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery time for patients.
What makes SFVA unique is it allows for many patients to be treated in the Coconut Creek office in a sophisticated endovascular surgery suite – one of the first of its kind in the country. If you’re suffering from any vascular disease, the doctors at SFVA can help. Contact us today for an evaluation - (954) 725-4141.
Peripheral Artery Disease occurs when fatty deposits build up and block the arteries, restricting blood flow and oxygen to the legs and feet. It increases the risk of heart attack and stroke and can lead to difficulty walking and amputation.
PAD often goes undiagnosed. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, hypertension and cholesterol.
The new study from the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom suggests 1 in 10 over the age of 70 is affected by PAD - 1 in 6 over the age of 80.
Longer life expectancy and changing lifestyles appears to be reasons for the increase. And it seems income plays a role in who is affected. PAD increased 13% in high income countries and nearly 29% in the rest of the world.
The findings are a call to action. There is an urgent need to assess treatment and create prevention strategies says the study’s lead author Gerry Fowkes. When a condition affects as many as 200 million people a global strategic plan must be developed.
At South Florida Vascular Associates we develop a specific plan to treat vascular conditions for each individual patient. Our expert interventional radiologists focus on vascular problems and treating them in minimally invasive ways.
See Dr. Swee's interview on WPLG-TV about a new device for Peripheral Artery Disease. Drs. William Julien, Warren Swee, and Curtis Anderson are board certified endovascular surgeons at South Florida Vascular Associates. They are experts in the field of interventional radiology, one of the fastest growing areas of medicine. The minimally invasive techniques used by interventional radiologists often replace open surgical procedures. This means smaller incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery time for patients.
What makes SFVA unique is it allows for many patients to be treated in the Coconut Creek office in a sophisticated endovascular surgery suite – one of the first of its kind in the country. If you’re suffering from any vascular disease, the doctors at SFVA can help. Contact us today for an evaluation - (954) 725-4141.
Friday, July 26, 2013
Vascular Disease linked to Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s – Diet and Exercise Key
Eating healthy foods like lean proteins and vegetables and exercising regularly have always been the remedy for losing weight or reducing the risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. A new study now suggests that same healthy combination may also delay or prevent the onset of dementia due to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
This study by researchers in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania is the first to compare the presence of cerebrovascular disease across the whole spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers were surprised how strong the link is between vascular disease and dementia. Nearly 80% of Alzheimer's patients studied had some form of vascular disease.
There are currently no modifying therapies to change the course of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease. So based on this new research, promoting a healthy lifestyle especially in young people will likely help reduce the number of these patients in the future.
One of the most common vascular conditions is Peripheral Artery Disease or PDA when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs. PAD is caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries or atherosclerosis. Angioplasty and stenting are just some of the treatments that can be used to open the arteries and restore blood flow.
The doctors at South Florida Vascular Associates focus on vascular problems and treating them in minimally invasive ways. This rapidly growing area of medicine is known as interventional radiology. The minimally invasive techniques used by interventional radiologists often replace open surgical procedures. This means smaller incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery time for patients.
Dr. William Julien is president of South Florida Vascular Associates. His unique practice allows for many patients to be treated right in his Coconut Creek office in a sophisticated endovascular surgery suite – one of the first of its kind in the country.
If you’re suffering from vascular disease, the doctors at SFVA can help. Contact us today for an evaluation from one of our board certified physicians. We have 3 locations for your convenience. Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach and Plantation, Florida. - (954) 725-4141.
This study by researchers in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania is the first to compare the presence of cerebrovascular disease across the whole spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers were surprised how strong the link is between vascular disease and dementia. Nearly 80% of Alzheimer's patients studied had some form of vascular disease.
There are currently no modifying therapies to change the course of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease. So based on this new research, promoting a healthy lifestyle especially in young people will likely help reduce the number of these patients in the future.
One of the most common vascular conditions is Peripheral Artery Disease or PDA when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs. PAD is caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries or atherosclerosis. Angioplasty and stenting are just some of the treatments that can be used to open the arteries and restore blood flow.
The doctors at South Florida Vascular Associates focus on vascular problems and treating them in minimally invasive ways. This rapidly growing area of medicine is known as interventional radiology. The minimally invasive techniques used by interventional radiologists often replace open surgical procedures. This means smaller incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery time for patients.
Dr. William Julien is president of South Florida Vascular Associates. His unique practice allows for many patients to be treated right in his Coconut Creek office in a sophisticated endovascular surgery suite – one of the first of its kind in the country.
If you’re suffering from vascular disease, the doctors at SFVA can help. Contact us today for an evaluation from one of our board certified physicians. We have 3 locations for your convenience. Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach and Plantation, Florida. - (954) 725-4141.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
If You Have Plans to Travel this Summer Be Sure to Keep Your Legs Moving to Avoid Deep Vein Thrombosis
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| Deep Vein Thrombosis in Left Leg |
Serious blood clots are typically more common after the age of 60, and are twice as likely to occur during long-distance travel. If a blood clot forms in the leg, it can potentially break off and travel up to the lungs where it can block normal breathing. This is called a pulmonary embolism and can be fatal if left untreated
To reduce your chances of getting deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism while traveling, you should:
• Move your legs often in your seat
• Do stretches by flexing and pointing your toes
• Walk up and down the aisle
• If traveling by car, stop every couple of hours and walk around for a few minutes.
• Wear compression socks or stockings if you have a history of clotting or circulation problems
• Discuss your travel plans with health-care provider
• Stay well-hydrated during your journey
Since summer is a popular season for travel, make sure you know how to reduce your chances of deep vein thrombosis.
If you are experiencing pain and swelling in your leg and you suspect that you might have deep vein thrombosis please contact our office immediately to schedule an evaluation with one of our board certified endovascular surgeons. We have 3 convenient office locations Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach and Plantation, Florida. Contact us today at 954-725-4141.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Diabetics and Superbug Risks
If there’s anything Americans can agree on, it’s that diabetes is a disease you should not take lightly. Lifestyle changes, like exercising and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, can help to prevent and reduce the symptoms of diabetes.
Nearly 26 million American children and adults have diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2012 diagnosed diabetes in the United States cost $245 billion.
The Affordable Care Act also known as Obamacare was created to cut healthcare costs. So it’s important for Americans to adopt some of these lifestyle changes to prevent higher health care costs for the nation.
Constant monitoring of diabetics may actually cut costs. A new study released in May 2013 from the Journal of Medical Microbiology only supports this theory.
Experts have known for years that diabetics are at greater risk of contracting bacterial infections. The new study shows these same patients are at more risk than non-diabetics to contract those Superbugs that are resistant to certain antibiotics.
Also one of the conditions that result from diabetes is critical limb ischemia or “diabetic foot.” This disorder occurs when arteries of the lower extremities are severely blocked significantly reducing blood flow.
Diabetic patients are more at risk of CLI and amputation of a limb. New research indicates these patients not only need excellent care but constant follow up and regular visits to the doctor to prevent diabetic foot ulcerations and ultimately amputations.
At South Florida Vascular Associates we provide the most advanced vascular care and the latest minimally invasive endovascular treatments. Our team of interventional radiologists performs a variety of procedures in our state-of-the-Art endovascular suites.
If you are a diabetic and you are experiencing pain in your legs while walking, you may have peripheral artery disease which can become a serious problem if left untreated. We invite you to contact our office to schedule an evaluation with one of our board certified interventional radiologists. We have 3 convenient office locations for your convenience, Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek and Plantation.
Contact us today at 954-573-2929.
Nearly 26 million American children and adults have diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2012 diagnosed diabetes in the United States cost $245 billion.
The Affordable Care Act also known as Obamacare was created to cut healthcare costs. So it’s important for Americans to adopt some of these lifestyle changes to prevent higher health care costs for the nation.
Constant monitoring of diabetics may actually cut costs. A new study released in May 2013 from the Journal of Medical Microbiology only supports this theory.
Experts have known for years that diabetics are at greater risk of contracting bacterial infections. The new study shows these same patients are at more risk than non-diabetics to contract those Superbugs that are resistant to certain antibiotics.
Also one of the conditions that result from diabetes is critical limb ischemia or “diabetic foot.” This disorder occurs when arteries of the lower extremities are severely blocked significantly reducing blood flow.
Diabetic patients are more at risk of CLI and amputation of a limb. New research indicates these patients not only need excellent care but constant follow up and regular visits to the doctor to prevent diabetic foot ulcerations and ultimately amputations.
At South Florida Vascular Associates we provide the most advanced vascular care and the latest minimally invasive endovascular treatments. Our team of interventional radiologists performs a variety of procedures in our state-of-the-Art endovascular suites.
If you are a diabetic and you are experiencing pain in your legs while walking, you may have peripheral artery disease which can become a serious problem if left untreated. We invite you to contact our office to schedule an evaluation with one of our board certified interventional radiologists. We have 3 convenient office locations for your convenience, Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek and Plantation.
Contact us today at 954-573-2929.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Show Off Legs With Confidence – Attacking Varicose Veins
South Florida is known for its year-long balmy temperatures. Because of the heat, shorts, skirts and dresses are fashion staples – a way for men and women to show off their sexy legs.
But some folks will keep their legs hidden because of embarrassing varicose veins or spider veins. 40 million Americans in all are affected.
Symptoms
Varicose veins are blue, twisted and thick veins that typically develop on the calves or lower legs. Not only are these veins unattractive but they can hurt. Symptoms of varicose veins include aching, debilitating pain, swelling and rashes.
When valves in the legs' superficial veins stop closing, gravity pulls blood back down and pools inside the veins. This is called venous insufficiency.
Varicose veins affect both men and women over 50. But below the age of 50, more women have them.
Varicose Veins Causes
The most common reasons for varicose veins are:
• Heredity
• Multiple Pregnancies
• Obesity
• History of Blood Clots
Spider Veins Causes
Spider veins can be caused by the backup of blood. They can also be caused by hormone changes, exposure to the sun, and injuries.
Prevention
There are steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing both spider and varicose veins. These are things that can also help to ease the discomfort from the ones you already have:
• Wear Sunscreen
• Exercise/Focus on strengthening the legs
• Don’t cross legs
• Don’t stand for long periods of time
• Eat a high fiber diet
• Avoid wearing high heels
Treatments
Some spider veins and varicose veins cannot be prevented. When you get them, exercising, elevating the legs and wearing support stockings can help to relieve the symptoms of varicose veins. But when these and the other suggestions above do not work, surgery may bring relief.
At South Florida Vascular Associates, we treat vascular problems in minimally invasive ways. Our team of interventional radiologists offers the most advanced procedures in our state-of-the-Art endovascular suites.
If you have varicose or spider veins and want to know your treatment options, call South Florida Vascular Associates today at 954-573-2929.
But some folks will keep their legs hidden because of embarrassing varicose veins or spider veins. 40 million Americans in all are affected.
Symptoms
Varicose veins are blue, twisted and thick veins that typically develop on the calves or lower legs. Not only are these veins unattractive but they can hurt. Symptoms of varicose veins include aching, debilitating pain, swelling and rashes.
When valves in the legs' superficial veins stop closing, gravity pulls blood back down and pools inside the veins. This is called venous insufficiency.
Varicose veins affect both men and women over 50. But below the age of 50, more women have them.
Varicose Veins Causes
The most common reasons for varicose veins are:
• Heredity
• Multiple Pregnancies
• Obesity
• History of Blood Clots
Spider Veins Causes
Spider veins can be caused by the backup of blood. They can also be caused by hormone changes, exposure to the sun, and injuries.
Prevention
There are steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing both spider and varicose veins. These are things that can also help to ease the discomfort from the ones you already have:
• Wear Sunscreen
• Exercise/Focus on strengthening the legs
• Don’t cross legs
• Don’t stand for long periods of time
• Eat a high fiber diet
• Avoid wearing high heels
Treatments
Some spider veins and varicose veins cannot be prevented. When you get them, exercising, elevating the legs and wearing support stockings can help to relieve the symptoms of varicose veins. But when these and the other suggestions above do not work, surgery may bring relief.
At South Florida Vascular Associates, we treat vascular problems in minimally invasive ways. Our team of interventional radiologists offers the most advanced procedures in our state-of-the-Art endovascular suites.
If you have varicose or spider veins and want to know your treatment options, call South Florida Vascular Associates today at 954-573-2929.
Preventing Peripheral Artery Disease
America’s population is aging and is contributing to the increasing health care costs in the country. One of the most prevalent conditions affecting America’s older population is Peripheral Artery Disease or PAD.
One in five people over age 60 has it - an estimated 8 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control. PAD is a narrowing of the arteries caused by a plaque buildup. This limits blood flow to your head, organs and limbs which can potentially be life threatening.
Symptoms and Complications
PAD can go undetected for years, slowly and silently developing in your body. UW Medicine Health has some very important information on what you can do to prevent PAD. The most common cause of PAD is hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis. If the arteries that deliver blood to the legs are blocked, this will cause debilitating leg pain, ulcers and can lead to amputation. The most common cause of stroke is blocked arteries to the brain. And when PAD affects arteries to the kidneys, this can lead to severe high blood pressure and kidney failure.
Common risk factors include:
• Older than 60
• Ethnicity- more African Americans are affected
• Family History
• High Cholesterol
• High Blood Pressure
• High blood sugars and diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking/History of Smoking
Treatment Options
In some cases, lifestyle changes are enough to improve the condition. If routine screenings of Peripheral Artery Disease for blood pressure, blood cholesterol, lipids and sugar levels show you are at risk for PAD, medications are often necessary. When medication does not work, surgery is needed to open up the arteries.
Endovascular Surgery
The doctors at South Florida Vascular Associates focus on vascular problems and treating them in minimally invasive ways. This rapidly growing area of medicine is known as interventional radiology. The minimally invasive techniques used by interventional radiologists often replace open surgical procedures. This means smaller incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery time for patients.
At South Florida Vascular Associates, with offices in Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach and Plantation, we are very successful treating patients with PAD because we use the latest multidisciplinary approaches that treat the whole patient. Our patients are also treated in our unique office setting which has 3 sophisticated endovascular surgery suites where the majority of our patients are treated. SFVA is one of few interventional radiology practices in the US where patients can be treated in the comfort of an office setting.
If you’re suffering from PAD, the doctors at SFVA can help. Contact us today for an appointment - (954) 725-4141.
One in five people over age 60 has it - an estimated 8 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control. PAD is a narrowing of the arteries caused by a plaque buildup. This limits blood flow to your head, organs and limbs which can potentially be life threatening.
Symptoms and Complications
PAD can go undetected for years, slowly and silently developing in your body. UW Medicine Health has some very important information on what you can do to prevent PAD. The most common cause of PAD is hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis. If the arteries that deliver blood to the legs are blocked, this will cause debilitating leg pain, ulcers and can lead to amputation. The most common cause of stroke is blocked arteries to the brain. And when PAD affects arteries to the kidneys, this can lead to severe high blood pressure and kidney failure.
Common risk factors include:
• Older than 60
• Ethnicity- more African Americans are affected
• Family History
• High Cholesterol
• High Blood Pressure
• High blood sugars and diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking/History of Smoking
Treatment Options
In some cases, lifestyle changes are enough to improve the condition. If routine screenings of Peripheral Artery Disease for blood pressure, blood cholesterol, lipids and sugar levels show you are at risk for PAD, medications are often necessary. When medication does not work, surgery is needed to open up the arteries.
Endovascular Surgery
The doctors at South Florida Vascular Associates focus on vascular problems and treating them in minimally invasive ways. This rapidly growing area of medicine is known as interventional radiology. The minimally invasive techniques used by interventional radiologists often replace open surgical procedures. This means smaller incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery time for patients.
At South Florida Vascular Associates, with offices in Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach and Plantation, we are very successful treating patients with PAD because we use the latest multidisciplinary approaches that treat the whole patient. Our patients are also treated in our unique office setting which has 3 sophisticated endovascular surgery suites where the majority of our patients are treated. SFVA is one of few interventional radiology practices in the US where patients can be treated in the comfort of an office setting.
If you’re suffering from PAD, the doctors at SFVA can help. Contact us today for an appointment - (954) 725-4141.
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