Screening and Diagnosis
Getting the Jump on Vascular Disease
The absence of symptoms for most forms of arterial vascular disease means that understanding and addressing risk factors (see Risk Factors & Prevention) and being tested regularly is doubly important. For those whose risk factors make them likely candidates for vascular disease, taking advantage of publicly available screening programs for vascular disease can be a lifesaving choice.
In addition, major strides in diagnostic technologies have enhanced the science of detecting and diagnosing vascular disease. CT (computerized tomography) and MR (magnetic resonance) technology are diagnostic tools physicians use to measure or “see” the evidence of vascular disease in ways that aid not only in diagnosis but also in treatment.
If your doctor suspects vascular disease, he or she may order one of the following tests, all of which are completely non-invasive.
An ultrasound is one type of screening test. Click to see larger version.
- CT (computerized tomography) scan — a highly advanced form of X-ray that takes pictures of your body in cross sections
- Magnetic Resonance Angiography — similar to an MRI, using magnetic resonance technology to generate detailed images of the arteries and veins
- Ankle Brachial Index — measures blood pressure in your ankle and compares it to blood pressure in your arm
- Ultrasound Doppler Test — another way of seeing inside the blood vessel, using sound waves to generate an image
Regular screenings for blood pressure, whether through your doctor or the many screening opportunities available in other healthcare or community settings, are of the utmost importance for people of more than a certain age or in risk categories.
The Importance of Screening
Because the signs or symptoms of some forms of vascular disease do not present themselves in obvious or noticeable ways, having screening procedures performed periodically—especially for those in risk categories—is an extremely important factor in preventing what may become a disabling or life threatening condition.
Dare to C.A.R.E. Program
Learn about the Dare to C.A.R.E. vascular screening program. It's fast, painless and best of all, free. Click here to learn more.