Identifying and Addressing Vascular Problems

Dr. Sharma, a heart specialist in Winter Park, FL, utilizes tests like this to identify and address vascular problems so that he can help his patients work toward achieving and maintaining optimal cardiovascular health. If you suspect your heart health is at risk, don’t delay the pursuit of further diagnostic testing. Heartwell Cardiology offers vascular ultrasounds to Orlando area patients.

What is a Vascular Ultrasound?

A vascular ultrasound is a study conducted to measure the efficiency and amount of blood flowing through the arteries and veins. The test applies advanced and sophisticated sound wave technology. Sound waves are produced by an ultrasound wand that’s pressed against your skin and these waves move through your skin, tissues, and blood vessels which they echo off of to produce feedback. This feedback is reported to a computer and translates as imaging. There are various types of ultrasound technologies, and which is used for your vascular ultrasound depends on what Dr. Sharma is looking for.

What is a Vascular Ultrasound Used to Examine?

A vascular ultrasound helps a cardiologist check for signs and symptoms that indicate reduced blood flow in the arterial systems. This aides in the detection of conditions that cause decreased, inefficient blood flow. This includes conditions such as the following:

  • Atherosclerosis
  • Aneurysm
  • Thrombus
  • Embolus
  • An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation
  • Infection that causes inflammation
  • Varicose veins

Who Needs a Vascular Ultrasound?

Dr. Sharma may order a vascular ultrasound for patients who report any of the following:

  • Leg pain or weakness during exercise
  • Swelling
  • Soreness
  • Tenderness
  • Redness or warmth in the leg
  • Pale, cold skin
  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Foot pain while seated or reclined that resolves with standing
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What to Expect from a Vascular Ultrasound

During a vascular ultrasound at Heartwell Cardiology, you can expect an experience that is, above all else, relaxed and efficient. The process generally goes as follows:

  • You’ll lie down on one of our comfortable exam tables.
  • The ultrasound wand will be pressed against your gel-coated skin and run across the locations above whichever arteries and veins need studying.
  • Dr. Sharma will apply a clear gel to your skin.
  • Dr. Sharma will continue to move the wand around to get a comprehensive comparison of blood flow in your arteries and veins.

We do want to note that, for vascular ultrasounds of the legs, a blood pressure cuff (or several cuffs) will be placed and used to determine how much blood flow is being blocked in your legs.

Vascular Ultrasound FAQs

Is a vascular ultrasound invasive?

How long is the recovery?

How long does a vascular ultrasound take?

Are there any required preparations?

Is there exposure to radiation?

Is a vascular ultrasound invasive?

No, it’s non-invasive and painless.

How long is the recovery?

Patients usually go home same day and can resume normal diet and activities.

How long does a vascular ultrasound take?

Usually less than 1 hour.

Are there any required preparations?

Generally, no.

Is there exposure to radiation?

No.

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Get the Diagnostic Details

Visit Heartwell Cardiology in Orlando to see how we’re transforming the patient experience as they undergo diagnostic testing. The last thing we want for any of our heart patients is for them to be burdened by worry. Shed the weight of worry by letting us take care of the diagnostic details. Dr. Sharma, a cardiologist in Orlando and Winterpark, FL, delivers thorough, compassionate care from our Orlando area location, where we conduct diagnostic examinations in the office. Our practice is an inviting environment where patients can count on getting answers to all their health questions. Call us today or click here to schedule your vascular ultrasound. 

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