Vascular Health Month: What You Need to Know Now

Protect Your Arteries: Know the Signs of Vascular Disease

September Shines a Light on Vascular Health

September is a good time to think about your blood vessels. This month is both Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month and Aortic Dissection Awareness Month. These observances may sound technical, but the message is simple: knowing the signs of trouble can help you or someone you love get lifesaving care in time. Take the time to learn about your _{vascular health}.

What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

PAD happens when arteries — the vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body — become narrowed or blocked. This usually comes from a buildup of plaque, which makes it harder for blood to flow to your legs and feet. 

Warning signs of PAD may include:

• Pain, cramping or tiredness in your legs when walking
• Numbness or weakness in your legs
• Wounds on your feet or toes that heal slowly
• Cold, pale or discolored feet

PAD doesn’t just affect your legs. It can also raise your risk for heart attack or stroke. The good news is that it’s treatable. Our team helps patients manage _PAD with lifestyle changes, medicines or procedures to improve blood flow.

“We see a lot of patients who think leg pain is just part of getting older,” says Dr. Danielle Pineda. “But pain when you walk, especially if it goes away when you rest, is not normal aging. It’s worth getting checked — early treatment makes a big difference.”

What is an Aortic Dissection?

The aorta is your body’s main blood vessel. It carries blood from your heart to every part of your body, like a superhighway. An aortic dissection happens when the inner layer of the aorta tears. Blood then flows between the layers of the vessel wall. It’s rare, but it can be life-threatening if not treated right away. Learn about the _{expert vascular care} available at AtlantiCare.

Warning signs of an aortic dissection include:

• Sudden, sharp or tearing pain in the chest, back or belly
• Trouble breathing
• Feeling faint or passing out
• A weak pulse on one side of the body

If you notice these signs, call 911 right away. Quick treatment can save lives.

“It can be scary to think about, but knowing the warning signs gives you power,” says Dr. Joseph Lombardi. “When someone gets to the hospital quickly, we have the best chance of helping them through it.”

How Vascular Surgeons Can Help

At AtlantiCare, our _{vascular surgeons} use advanced imaging and treatment methods to care for the aorta and other blood vessels. Some repairs can even be done with minimally invasive stents, which may mean shorter recovery times.

Dr. Lombardi and Dr. Pineda, both recognized among Newsweek’s Top Doctors in Vascular Surgery, lead the team. Their goal is simple: to protect patients’ health and help them live longer, healthier lives.

Steps You Can Take

Not every vascular problem can be prevented, but healthy habits lower your risk. To protect your blood vessels:

• Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control
• Don’t smoke
• Stay active — even simple walking helps
• Eat a heart-healthy diet with more fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• See your doctor regularly, especially if you have a family history of vascular disease

The Bottom Line

PAD and aortic dissection may not be well known, but they matter. By paying attention to symptoms and taking care of your health, you can lower your risk and act fast if a problem occurs. And with expert care from _{Dr. Lombardi}, _Dr.Pineda and the AtlantiCare vascular team, you don’t have to face it alone.

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