Vim & Vigor - Fall 2011 - Parrish Medical Center - (Page 38)

Thoracic aortic aneurysm Warning signs: Usually no symptoms until the aneurysm expands or leaks; then throbbing or aching chest pain, coughing or shortness of breath Take acTion: Call 911 WhaT’s happening: The aorta is the main blood vessel carrying blood out of the heart to the rest of the body. An aneurysm is an enlargement or split in the wall of the upper aorta, usually caused by hardened arteries (atherosclerosis) or a birth defect. Most aneurysms have no symptoms unless they begin to grow, putting pressure on surrounding organs. A leaking or burst aneurysm is fatal without immediate medical attention. Chest: Call Parrish Medical Center at 321-268-6150 to make an appointment for a FREE PAD screening, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Free PAD Screenings Warning signs: Usually without symptoms; but a rupture causes sudden pain in the abdomen or back that’s severe, persistent or constant and may radiate to the groin, buttocks or legs Take acTion: Call 911 WhaT’s happening: The large blood vessel that supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis and legs expands abnormally or balloons outward. Abdomen: Abdominal aortic aneurysm Warning signs: Inflamed, swollen and painful hands and feet Take acTion: Stop smoking WhaT’s happening: Buerger’s disease is a rare condition that makes the arteries and veins in the arms and legs swell up and become blocked by blood clots, causing infections and sometimes even gangrene. The condition is most common in men younger than 40 and is almost always associated with tobacco use. Medication can improve your circulation, but giving up all forms of nicotine is the only way to stop or prevent the disease. Primary Raynaud’s syndrome Warning signs: Pain or numbness in the fingers or toes (nose, lips and ears also might be affected), which may appear white or red Take acTion: Warm your hands by flexing or rubbing them or putting them in warm water WhaT’s happening: Primary Raynaud’s syndrome makes the arteries of the fingers or toes constrict as an overreaction to cold or stress. It’s common, especially among women, and most cases are annoying rather than disabling. If you experience extended episodes or it first appears after age 40, talk to your doctor, as it may be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition such as carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis or an autoimmune disease. Arms: Buerger’s disease Don’t Wait in Vein If you have a spider’s web of blood vessels on the surface of your legs or ropy veins bulging beneath the skin, blame your parents. Varicose veins are largely genetic, and there’s no way to prevent them, says Gina Lundberg, M.D., a preventive cardiologist and American Heart Association spokeswoman. When the valves in the leg veins become weak, they let blood pool instead of moving it smoothly back toward the heart. Fortunately, it’s not dangerous, although the swelling is unsightly and may be painful, Dr. Lundberg says. Surgery may be recommended to improve appearance. To ease the discomfort, wear support hose and sturdy, supportive shoes. Elevate your feet whenever you can. Finally, when you’re on your feet, move around instead of standing still. “Keep the muscles working to squeeze the blood along in the veins,” Dr. Lundberg says. “Even a few steps back and forth are better than standing in one place.” Fingers: 38 Vim & Vigor • Fall 2 011 call

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Fall 2011 - Parrish Medical Center

Vim & Vigor - Fall 2011 - Parrish
Contents
Tasty Tips
Opening Thoughts
Community Calendar
Don't Be a Drowsy Driver
The Art of Nursing
Healthy Hues
The New Survivors
First (Aid) Things First
Find Your Groove
A Healthy Tune
Stay in Circulation
'X' Marks the Spot
Pregnancy Predictors
Play It Safe
What's New?
A Walking, Talking Fitness Billboard
Community Health
Special Foundation Focus
Ask the Expert

Vim & Vigor - Fall 2011 - Parrish Medical Center