27, 12, 2022

The connection between cholesterol and vascular health

2022-10-24T15:56:29-07:00

How cholesterol affects your vascular health

When it comes to vascular disease, cholesterol is enemy number one. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in the walls of human cells. The human body produces cholesterol but it also comes from foods that are high in animal fats such as eggs, cheese and meat.

But all cholesterol is not created equal. It comes in two very different types:

  • Good cholesterol, or high-density lipoprotein (HDL), helps keep arteries from becoming blocked.
  • Bad cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) can build up and cause blockages in the arteries.

Triglycerides are fats produced by the liver. They can cause the same kinds of health problems as LDL. Over time, a buildup of extra cholesterol, or plaque, can narrow the insides of blood vessels. Eventually, the plaque causes hardening of the arteries, also called atherosclerosis. This condition can lead to vascular disease, strokes, heart attacks, aneurysms and other life-threatening problems.

When doctors tell you to “know your numbers,” one of those numbers is your cholesterol level. For good vascular health:

  • Total cholesterol should be less than 200.
  • Good cholesterol (HDL) should be more than 60. 
  • Bad cholesterol (LDL) should be less than 130.
  • Triglycerides should be less than 150.

Why take statins for cholesterol control?

All types of atherosclerosis are improved when patients take statins.

Side effects are relatively rare, and if a patient does not tolerate one statin, there are many different ones that can be tried.

What are statins?

Statins act as a key control point in the metabolism of serum cholesterol.

Specifically, when “bad” (LDL) cholesterol is high, the risk of heart attack and stroke is high.

Can lifestyle changes impact cholesterol levels?

Yes. Even slight lifestyle choices can impact vascular disease. For example, a 10-pound weight loss can result in a 5 to 8 percent reduction in LDL.

If lifestyle changes are not enough to bring your numbers to a healthy level, medication may help. Total cholesterol levels that are borderline high (between 150-199 mg /dL) or high (200 mg / dL or more) may require treatment with a statin drug. Some conditions actually benefit from a statin even if your numbers are normal.

Who benefits from taking statins?

  • People who are at risk of heart attack and stroke due to high cholesterol
  • Patients with hardening of the arteries supplying oxygen-rich blood to the brain or the legs
  • Vascular surgery patients. During a vascular procedure, they have fewer complications

Do statins affect plaque in the blood vessels?

Newer research suggests that statins don’t just stop plaque from getting worse, they may also reduce plaque in the leg arteries. Studies also now suggest that statins keep plaque stable so it is less likely to break off and form blood clots that cause heart attacks and strokes. Statins also improve the function of cells inside of the artery.

Don’t statins have side effects?

Few statin side effects have been recorded since they were introduced 40 years ago. Most mild side effects, such as muscle pain and cramps, can be avoided by switching statins. Serious side effects are rare but it is important to be aware of them. They include:

  • Liver damage. This very rare condition doesn’t cause symptoms, so laboratory tests are ordered when patients first start taking statins.
  • A wide range of muscle injuries. In rare cases, inflammation of the muscles can occur. At its worst, this rapid muscle destruction can lead to kidney failure.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

 

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 

For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link.

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency, check this link out full of resources.

The connection between cholesterol and vascular health2022-10-24T15:56:29-07:00

Vascular Health and Physical Activity

2022-10-24T12:56:53-07:00

Physical activity helps to burn calories, increase the heart rate, and keep blood flowing at a healthy rate for your vascular health. All of these contribute to vascular health. 

If your doctor has diagnosed you with vascular disease, or if you have concerns about your vascular health, starting some good habits can help keep vascular complications at bay. Daily exercise has been found to have a significant positive effect on vascular health, along with other good lifestyle choices, such as not smoking, eating heart-friendly foods and maintaining a healthy body weight.

Your Vascular Health

Exercise can impact several artery diseases. A regular exercise routine may reduce the risk of stroke, the fourth leading cause of death in America according to the CDC’s 2010 National Vital Statistics Report. In 2010, 137,000 Americans died of stroke. Studies show that patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) may be successfully treated with exercise therapy and possibly avoid interventions. Regular exercise also decreases the growth rate of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), research has found.

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends 150 minutes of physical activity per week for adults ages 18 to 64. The activity can be a combination of moderate intensity aerobics and strength training, and should continue for at least 10 minutes at a time.

Moderate-intensity aerobic activities that increase the heart rate and cause sweating which are great for vascular health:

  • Riding a bicycle at a casual pace 
  • Playing doubles tennis
  • Actively playing with children
  • Mowing the lawn
  • Gardening, raking, or bagging leaves
  • Light snow shoveling
  • Water aerobics
  • Ballroom dancing

Vigorous activity that increase the heart rate that are great for vascular health:

  • Hiking uphill or with a heavy backpack,  race walking, jogging, running
  • Riding a bicycle fast or riding hills, more than 10 miles/hr
  • Rollerblading / inline skating at a brisk pace 
  • Playing basketball, football, soccer, etc.
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Jumping rope
  • Aerobic dancing
  • Heavy gardening continuous digging and hoeing
  • Swimming laps
  • Playing singles tennis

Twice weekly strengthening activities include:

  • Sit-ups, push-ups
  • Weight lifting
  • Heavy gardening such as digging and shoveling 
  • Yoga

The lack of regular physical activity results in 250,000 deaths annually, according to a 2003 report in the medical journal, Circulation. People who are the least physically fit have a mortality risk 4.5 times higher than physically fit people.

To add physical activity into your daily schedule:

  • Select enjoyable activities 
  • Work out with a friend
  • Encourage family members to participate
  • Measure progress through a daily exercise journal

Physical activity is not just good for your veins and arteries, just about every part of your body can benefit. According to the CDC, exercise also helps your vascular health and in addition helps:

  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease; can lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels
  • Reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes; can help control glucose levels
  • Reduce the risk of colon and breast cancer
  • Strengthen bones and muscles – can increase or build muscle mass and strength; can slow the loss of bone density that comes with age; can help with arthritis and other joint conditions
  • Keep thinking, learning, and judgment skills sharp 
  • Reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • Improve the ability to complete daily activities and prevent falls for older adults
  • Increase the chances of living longer by reducing the risk of dying from heart disease and some cancers

 

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 

For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link.

 

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency, check this link out full of resources. 

 

Vascular Health and Physical Activity2022-10-24T12:56:53-07:00

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

2022-10-24T15:28:45-07:00

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

With modern medication and care, conditions like fibroid tumors have become more treatable and easier to manage. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), for instance, is a fairly straightforward procedure used in the treatment of fibroid tumors in the uterus.

Sometimes referred to as uterine artery embolization (UAE), the uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) procedure helps countless women plagued by fibroid tumors.

What does the uterine fibroid embolization treatment entail, and how can you prepare for the procedure? Here’s everything you need to know about uterine fibroids treatment.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

The muscular walls of the uterus can sometimes be invaded by non-cancerous fibroid tumors. These tumors are also known as myomas and are a form of benign tumors. While these fibroid tumors rarely become cancerous, they can lead to other severe conditions such as increased menstrual bleeding, bowel or bladder pressure, and pelvic discomfort. 

Admittedly, while uterine fibroid embolization shows a high success rate, more research is still needed on the subject. For instance, at the moment, the procedure is usually performed on women who no longer desire to get pregnant. The UFE procedure may also be used on women who wish to avoid a hysterectomy procedure. 

When is Uterine Fibroid Embolization Used? 

 

As mentioned above, uterine fibroid treatment is rather straightforward and minimally invasive. As a result, the procedure can be used in a wide variety of cases. Some of the instances where the treatment is necessary or advocated for include;

  • Malignant gynecological tumors
  • Hemorrhage after childbirth
  • General or specific trauma

 

How to Prepare for a Uterine Fibroid Embolization Procedure

 

The healthcare professional will first need to ascertain if the fibroid tumors are the underlying cause of any visible and diagnosable symptoms. Afterward, they’ll need to determine the size, location, and the number of fibroids. This can be done with the help of an ultrasound machine or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment.

Moreover, your gynecologist may also need to run a physical examination through a laparoscopy examination. This test gives a clearer picture of the uterus and the invasive fibroids. You could also have a biopsy of the inner lining of the uterus if you are bleeding excessively in between your periods. The procedure known as endometrium helps rule out cancer as the cause of bleeding.

If you are on any medication, supplements, or herbal remedies, you’ll need to inform the doctor before the procedure. Additionally, make a list of any known allergies, including general and local anesthesia and the dye or contrast materials.

It’s also wise to notify the healthcare team if you have recently suffered an illness, just finished treatment, or are on other medication. For example, if you’re on blood thinners, the healthcare provider may advise you temporarily halt the medication in preparation for the procedure.

Women who suspect they are pregnant should let the doctor know well before the uterine fibroid embolization treatment. Some imaging tests are usually not performed during pregnancy in a bid to minimize any radiation exposure to the fetus. In the case of an imaging test, such as an x-ray, which is essential to the operation, particular care guidelines must be followed to manage and reduce radiation exposure.

While preparing for the procedure, you’ll likely be put off solid meals after midnight to the procedure’s day. While the procedure takes a few hours, the doctor could request to stay overnight for further observation.

 

What Equipment to Expect

 

Since this is a minimally invasive procedure, the tools and equipment used are reasonably common and risk-free. Some of the equipment to be used in uterine fibroid embolization treatment includes a catheter, x-ray machines, and various embolic agents and medications.

The synthetic material used is known as embolic agents and varies in composition and efficacy. The three most common types of embolic agents are;

-Gelfoam whose texture resembles spongy material

-Polyvinyl alcohol, which resembles coarse sand

-Microspheres, which is a polyacrylamide sphere coated with gelatin

These tolls, equipment, and medication are all safe to use during the uterine fibroid embolization treatment.

 

Benefits and Risks Associated with Uterine Embolization Treatment

 

Some of the advantages of uterine fibroid embolization include;

-There’s no need for surgery as the procedure is minimally invasive

-You can resume regular activity sooner and faster

-The procedure is highly effective, boasting well over 90% efficacy rating

-Fibroids rarely regrow after the uterine embolization treatment

-On the other hand, some of the risks that could occur during the procedure are;

-The procedure pierces the skin and could leave an infection if not properly cleaned

-The embolic agents need to be guided carefully, or they could lodge in the wrong area

-Fibroids can lead to chronic pain and an array of other conditions. With uterine embolization treatment, you can now get relief and get back to your healthy self.

 

What To Expect during Uterine Fibroid Embolization Procedure

 

A UFE usually takes between 1 and 3 hours and patients usually require about 6 hours of bed rest after the procedure. Patients may experience mild discomfort as the embolization takes full effect. The fibroid tumors breaking down and exiting the body may cause light bleeding for the few weeks after the procedure. Most patients can expect to return to normal activity 7 to 10 days after the procedure. Our physicians will most likely recommend a follow-up consultation after the UFE 1 to 3 weeks afterward and an ultrasound or MRI 3 to 6 months later to monitor your progress.



La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 

For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link.

 

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency, check this link out full of resources. 


What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?2022-10-24T15:28:45-07:00

25, 4, 2022

La Jolla Vein & Vascular welcomes Dr. Elliot DeYoung, M.D.

2022-04-23T14:16:23-07:00

La Jolla Vein & vascular welcomes our newest doctor at the La Jolla location, Dr. Elliot DeYoung, MD.

new doctor

Dr. Elliot DeYoung is a board-certified interventional radiologist who has spent his career focused on minimally invasive procedures. He completed his training at University of California, San Diego where he specialized in vascular interventions and served on the patient safety committee. Dr. DeYoung’s expertise spans vascular disease from angioplasty and stenting to embolization and ablation. He values thorough patient education and the continuity of patient care.

Dr. DeYoung is excited about joining La Jolla Vein & Vascular team to continue its renowned venous care. He will lead the center in the expansion of vascular services to provide crucial out-patient care to the community. The practice is enthusiastic to offer treatments for peripheral arterial disease, may thurners, and uterine fibroids.

Dr. DeYoung received his bachelor’s degree from USC in Psychology followed by his medical degree from the University of Sydney, School of Medicine. He initially trained as a General Surgery resident in New York before transitioning his training to Interventional Radiology in San Diego. He has a passion for water sports and his free time is spent enjoying the outdoors with his family.

Dr. DeYoung is looking forward to treating your vascular needs at La Jolla Vein & Vascular.

Dr. DeYoung is a vascular specialist with focus on aortic and peripheral vascular disease, pelvic congestion syndrome, and interventional oncology. His skills include varicocele embolization, venous interventions, uterine fibroid embolization, prostate artery embolization, and genicular artery embolization.

Please check out Dr DeYoung’s video for more information.

La Jolla Vein & Vascular welcomes Dr. Elliot DeYoung, M.D.2022-04-23T14:16:23-07:00

30, 3, 2022

What is Carotid Artery Disease?

2022-03-30T16:49:46-07:00

What is carotid artery disease? 

Your carotid arteries are two main arteries that carry blood from your heart, up through your neck, to your brain. Healthy carotid arteries are smooth and unobstructed, allowing blood to flow freely to the brain and provide oxygen, glucose and other nutrients that your brain cells need. Carotid artery disease is a vascular disease.

Typically with age, the carotid arteries build up plaque, made up mostly of fat and cholesterol. Plaque narrows the insides of the arteries and makes them stiff. This process is commonly referred to as “hardening of the arteries,” or atherosclerosis. Carotid artery disease results when the carotid arteries become narrow or obstructed and provide a risk of the plaque traveling to the brain and causing a stroke.

What is a stroke?

Strokes are the third leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of perma- nent disability in older Healthy Plaque Build Up adults. Approximately 25% of strokes occur when bits of carotid plaque or clot break off and flow to the brain. If left untreated, carotid artery disease may lead to stroke, where lack of oxygen and other essential nutrients cause damage to the brain. Depending on its severity, a stroke can be fatal.

Symptoms of carotid artery disease: 

  • There may be no symptoms in the early stages of carotid artery disease, and stroke could be the first sign of the condition.
  • Stroke, however, typically has warning signs, referred to as mini-strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs).
  • Mini-stroke symptoms are usually temporary, lasting a few minutes to a few hours, and should be treated as serious medical emergencies requiring immediate treatment because they are strong predictors of future stroke.

Some symptoms of stroke or TIA may include:

– Weakness, numbness, or tingling on one side of the body

– Inability to control movement of a body part

– Loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes

– Inability to speak clearly

– Difficulty talking or comprehending what others are saying

Causes and risk factors of carotid disease:

  • High blood pressure and age
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • High cholesterol and obesity
  • Lack of exercise
  • Family history of hardening of the arteries and/or stroke

Diagnosis of carotid artery disease: 

If your doctor suspects carotid artery disease, it can be confirmed by undergoing a noninvasive duplex ultrasound examination. The ultrasound can also show how severe the disease is. If you experience symptoms of a mini-stroke, seek medical attention immediately. Your physician may then ask you to see a vascular specialist since they are highly trained in every type of vascular procedure.

 

Treatment:

Depending on the severity of your condition, treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures such as carotid endarterectomy (cleaning out the plaque with surgery), or in select cases, carotid artery stenting. Some patients benefit from surgery even if they are having no symptoms based upon life expectancy and degree of narrowing.

 

What is Carotid Artery Disease?2022-03-30T16:49:46-07:00
NEW LJVV Logo WEB

CONTACT INFORMATION

La Jolla/UTC

Vista

Patient Privacy Practices

Privacy Policy

Hippa Privacy Practices
HIPAAOneTM Certified Seal 2

Use the search features below to find articles and insights for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT SAN DIEGO

La Jolla/ UTC

North County San Diego/ Vista
Now Open! Call/Text for Appointments

© Copyright 2010-2024, La Jolla Vein & Vascular | All Rights Reserved

CONTACT INFORMATION

La Jolla/UTC

Vista

Patient Privacy Practices

Privacy Policy

Hippa Privacy Practices
HIPAAOneTM Certified Seal 2

Use the search features below to find articles and insights for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT SAN DIEGO

La Jolla/ UTC

North County San Diego/ Vista — Endovascular Center
Now Open! Call/Text for Appointments

© Copyright 2010-2024, La Jolla Vein & Vascular | All Rights Reserved

Go to Top