Diagnosing, Treating Vascular Disease

mature couple outside

When blockages occur in blood vessels from cholesterol plaques, circulation can get disrupted and organs such as the brain, heart, and legs may not receive adequate blood flow for ordinary function. At South Texas Health System Heart, patients receive full-access to innovative treatments for the full spectrum of vascular disorders including peripheral arterial disease, stroke, blood clots, varicose veins, lymphedema and aneurysm.  

Preventing Vascular Problems

The best way to try to prevent vascular conditions is to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Stopping smoking, keeping blood pressure under control, losing weight if you're overweight, and increasing the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables you eat can help reduce the risk of developing problems. Simple lifestyle changes go a long way in prevention. However, when problems do arise we are fully equipped to diagnose and treat them.

Get With The Guidelines®

South Texas Health System is the only stroke center in the Rio Grande Valley and one of only four facilities in Texas to be awarded the Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus award on all three target levels: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Advanced Therapy and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll. With this recognition, our community can be confident that STHS uses the most up-to-date evidence-based treatment guidelines to improve both patient care and outcomes.

Diagnosing Vascular Conditions

Early detection is key for treating vascular disease. At South Texas Health System Heart, we have expertise in the latest diagnostic technology used to screen for vascular conditions. Most diagnostic tests are simple and painless, and help determine the presence, location, and severity of a vascular problem. Screening is an important first step in effectively treating dangerous circulation problems. If you are over the age of 55, are diabetic, smoke, have a family history of atherosclerotic problems, or have high blood pressure you are at a greater risk of developing vascular disease.

Treatment Options for Vascular Disease

If vascular disease is present our specialists are here to answer your questions. We provide education, and help you understand your treatment options. Treatments can include prescription medications, arterial surgery, angioplasty and clot removal. In the past vascular conditions received treatment through traditional surgery. However, these days minimally invasive vascular procedures reduce recovery time, complications, pain and scarring. Read more about catheter-based procedures here.

To find a doctor that's right for you, call the South Texas Health System Reserve and Learn line at 800-879-1033.