Vascular problems can be debilitating or even deadly, and if you’ve had issues in the past you know how scary they can be. Here is some information about vascular health and some tips on how you can take care of yourself.
What causes vascular diseases?
Issues with the vascular system can be caused by lifestyle factors or they can be inherited. They are most commonly seen in men and include strokes, aneurysms, and peripheral and coronary artery disease.
If you have a family history of vascular issues, you should be aware that you may be especially susceptible to problems, and make your doctor aware so he or she can perform screening tests. Diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol also increase the risk of vascular disease.
How can you prevent vascular problems?
There are some things you can do to keep your vascular system healthy, and these become even more important if you are genetically predisposed to vascular problems. Of course, the top one is to stop smoking (and using other tobacco products), which is not only bad for your heart and circulatory system but for the rest of your body as well. Also:
- Get regular exercise. Thirty minutes a day is a good goal to aim for, and this can be as simple as taking a walk.
- Eat a good diet, with fresh fruits and vegetables. Stay away from processed foods that are made with a lot of salt. Eat fish and foods with a lot of iron, such as spinach.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Carrying too much weight can be hard on the body and the vascular system.
- Get a physical at least once a year, and see your doctor if you notice any new problems.
- Stop drinking alcohol, or at least drink in moderation (“moderation” means one to two drinks per day for men and one a day for women).
Vascular disease is a serious issue. If you have any concerns about your vascular health make an appointment with Dr. Sammy A. Zakhary. Call the Glendale, Arizona, office today at (623) 258-3255.
