Tag Archives: tampa vein center

06.01.20
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Vein Disease – More Than a Surface Issue

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varicose-veins-tampa-flVaricose and spider veins are unsightly and sometimes embarrassing. It’s easy to consider them just a visual issue and dismiss them. The problem is that they are a medial issue that can become worse over time. The time to stop them is now.

Varicose veins don’t simply appear because you have hit a certain age. They are being cased by something physical going wrong. Varicose veins are damaged veins.

The underlying physical cause is important because without knowing the cause it is difficult to alter behaviors or lifestyle which can potentially help quell the uprising. Things like smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol in excess, standing or sitting for very long periods of time, excess stress on the legs due to non circulation of being seated for long flights or road trips, and bad fatty chemical-laden diets can all come into play.

Vein disease may also be genetic and hereditary. If your parents or grandparents had vein issues you are at a raised risk level yourself.

Many people mistakenly believe that spider veins and varicose veins are simply a cosmetic issue and from that thought, also conclude that treatment would be cosmetic in nature and therefore not covered by their medical health insurance. The truth of the matter is that it is a medical condition called Venous Insufficiency ie. Vein disease. It isn’t just cosmetic and over time it can morph from just visual into aching, painful, itchy legs that range from annoying to debilitating.

The best time to halt vein problems in their tracks is as soon as they start. Talk with your insurance company and go see your local Vein Specialist for a consultation and diagnosis so you can see what exactly you are dealing with and what your options are. Most vein issues the treatment is covered by your insurance leaving you with only a copay for the office visit.

If you are in the Tampa Bay/Safety Harbor, Florida area we would love to meet with you. Dr. Mark Zuzga is one of the top leading experts in vein care here in Florida and can get your legs back to the best state of health possible in a short amount of time.

Give us a call at 727-712-3233 or visit us on the web to learn more about our services and practice by going to www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

06.01.20
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Endocarditis – It Can Be Avoided

endocarditis-tampa-cardio-heart-infection

endocarditis-tampa-cardio-heart-infectionInfective Endocarditis is an infection of the endocardium, by way of bacteria or fungus. It often leads to the onset of symptoms such as fever, anemia, heart murmurs, petechiae, and embolic phenomena.

Endocarditis infections may seem like dental issues it can easily leeway into heart issues. Dental care is paramount in heart health. Should your gums become sensitive and bleed regularly when you brush or floss you are at a higher risk.
Alternate additional tools like using a dental water pick, swishing with warm salt water rinses, and flossing daily can help your gums to heal and even prevent this.

Infections are generally strep or staph. They are caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream through normal daily activity on top of an injury or tears in the mouth by way of brushing too hard dental work, or even dental disease. Those who use IV drugs illegally or even IV therapy medically are also at a raised risk.

Dental infections – Symptoms to look out for:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Abnormal heart sounds
  • Skin becoming paler than usual
  • Joint Pain
  • Nausea
  • Night Sweats
  • Muscle Pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Left upper abdomen feeling full
  • Weight Loss

Treatment: is done by way of antibiotic medications. It is important to see your doctor as soon as you suspect you may have an infection.

Heart problems: This bacteria which has entered the bloodstream can settle in the heart and heart valves. Those with heart conditions have a greater likely hood of developing it. IE specifically refers to an infection in the lining of the heart but also may affect the muscles and flaps.

It may present as:

Subacute (or subacute bacterial endocarditis) — develops slowly over a period of weeks to several months.

Acute — develops suddenly and may become life-threatening within days

When it comes to IE preventative is the best care. With that said, never hesitate to come to us at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates of Tampa Bay, Florida if you feel like you need help with your heart. Always listen to your body.

We can be reached by dialing 813-975-2800. You may also learn more about us on our site at WWW.TAMPACARDIO.COM.

04.25.20
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Online Screening for Vein Issues

Online screening vein issues

Online screening vein issuesDid you know that step one in getting your vein health back can be done right from the comfort of your own home?

You might be surprised how much our Vein Specialists can tell you from just a quick introductory email containing a few questions.

Your West Florida Vein Specialist will asses your answers that have been entered into a secure contact form housed on a HIPPA compliant server. Your information is safe and confidential. It will be studied and compiled and a specialist will follow up with you to answer you directly. You will receive a response from a  live specialist, not an online programmed robot.

If your questionnaire answers and current health condition sound like they could potentially be a situation that would require treatment, they may recommend that you then follow up with an in-person office visit. If your condition does not require an in-person follow up, they will tell you that as well, possibly making simple suggestions for at-home care, preventatively.

Making steps that help to ensure your health are always positive. If your legs exhibit signs of possible venous disease, take a minute and fill out the online consultation. The consultation is completely FREE and you are under no further obligation.

Signs you may have venous insufficiency:

  • Tired legs
  • Achy legs
  • Restless legs at bedtime (twitching)
  • Visible varicose veins
  • Visible spider veins
  • Leg cramps
  • Itchy Legs
  • Odd skin textures on your legs
  • Wounds or ulcers that will not heal

These uncomfortable issues can be corrected through proper care.  Let the specialists at West Florida Vein Center set you on the right path back to leg health. If you have more questions or would prefer to see our doctors in person please visit www.westfloridaveincenter.com or call 727-712-3233.

04.03.20
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Anxiety and Heart Disease

chest pain anxiety heart disease tampa cardio

chest pain anxiety heart disease tampa cardioAnxiety disorders affect 40 million adults in the USA. 

Anxiety can make your body feel like you are having a heart attack. Chest based feelings of butterflies to sharp pains are not uncommon. 

Anxiety is not healthy in the short term but long term it can cause you to become ill emotionally and physically. Chronic anxiety can raise your risk for heart issues.

While small amounts of stress are healthy and even motivating, feeling worried or anxious now and then is normal. It’s when it becomes chronic that it may pose a negative threat to your wellbeing.

Generalized anxiety disorder is defined by at least 6 months of excessive worrying or feeling anxious about unrelated events. Approximately 5% of adults meet the criteria for this disorder. The incidence is higher, coming in at 11% among those with coronary artery disease and 13% of those with heart failure.

It has not been established whether anxiety sets off heart disease or vice versa. It is known that chronic anxiety can change the way the body reacts to stress. This happens via hormones and physiological reactions meant to keep us safe – known as the flight or fight response.

If your fight or flight response is constantly engaged it can lead to heart issues as well as adrenal burn out which may, in turn, cause other endocrine system issues.

Anxiety can present the same symptoms as a heart attack

A panic attack is so very similar in feel to a heart attack people often mistake them. Upon a trip to the ER, you will receive a diagnosis of non-cardiac chest pain. As many as 1 in 3 people will experience this in their lifetime.

What can you do?

The best answer medical professionals have found so far is a combination of medication and talk therapy. A cognitive-behavioral therapist will help you identify unwanted thoughts and establish what is anxiety-based and what is something that genuinely needs to be looked at and considered.

Medications work as a temporary bandaid to allow you to get through tough anxiety-filled times while working through the root cause with a therapist or on your own using tools such as automatic writing, meditation, yoga, or other relaxation healing based activities.

Never ignore chest pain. It is far better to be safe than sorry. If you are in the Tampa Florida area and looking for a cardiologist we invite you to check out the physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. www.tampacardio.com 813-975-2800.

04.02.20
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Sun Exposure and Varicose Veins

Vein-health-and-sun-exposure-west-florida-vein-cente

Vein-health-and-sun-exposure-west-florida-vein-centeIf you live somewhere where sunshine is a year-round presence you will want to know how it can affect your vein health! 

The Importance of sunscreen when it comes to veins

These days most of us do put on sunscreen when laying out catching some rays. Sunscreen can deter UVA and UVB rays from doing skin damage, aging the skin or leading to cancer. While many are aware of the dark spots or wrinkles the sun may cause but what many don’t think about how sun exposure can egg on spider veins to form on the nose or cause already active vein disease in the body to worsen. With people currently flocking to South West Florida for the end of the beach season, it’s important to be aware of how to protect your skin from the sun whether it’s on the beach or just gardening in the yard.

Can the Sun Actually Cause Varicose and Spider Veins?

Yes and no. The sun can cause spider veins. It cannot cause varicose veins.

Many people believe a good tan will hide the appearance of spider veins, which is true. However, it’s a temporary measure and one that can backfire if you get too much sun, causing even more spider veins to spread.

Should I Avoid the Sun?

The only time you really should avoid sun exposure is if you have recently had a vein removal done. It is important to protect the skin after such treatment. Doctors recommend that people who have undergone vein treatment surgery should remain out of the sun anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks. The sun’s rays can cause pigment changes in the skin. Once the doctor clears you to go in the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen to the area to protect the skin.

Spider Veins: The sun breaks down collagen under the skin and in blood vessels right beneath the surface causing spider veins to appear. Sun exposure may also cause veins in your face to do the same, especially in light-skinned individuals.

Varicose veins: On the other hand, varicose veins are never created by the sun. However, veins that are diseased may worsen in hot weather. The sun’s heat can cause the veins to dilate and enlarge causing venous distention. Venous distention is a condition in which veins swell due to being filled with more blood than is needed. An increase in blood and size means swelling and pain.

Sun exposure vein health West Florida Vein center

When Is the Best Time of Year to Get Veins Treated?

The winter months are the ideal time to get skin looking healthy for the summer. Most people don’t think of their veins during the colder months because we wear so much clothing, but it can make life a lot easier to get problems fixed before summer beach weather returns.

Why Winter Treatment is Ideal:

  • Veins can worsen in winter months from inactivity.
  • Veins could require additional treatments, so there is plenty of time to be ready for the warmer weather.
  • Compression hosiery is often worn before and after varicose vein procedures. These stockings are easier to wear or hide in cooler months.

Learn More About Sun Exposure and Veins

If you have concerns about sun exposure on your spider or varicose veins or have any other questions about treatments, schedule an appointment with a vein specialist. If you are in the greater Tampa area, you can schedule a visit with Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center at (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

03.10.20
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PCS – Pelvic Congestion Syndrome – Diagnosis and Treatment

Pelvic-Congestion-Syndrome-Tampa-Cardio

Pelvic-Congestion-Syndrome-Tampa-CardioPelvic Congestion Syndrome is a chronic medical condition that affects nearly 1/3 of all women at some point during their lifetime.

Pelvic congestion syndrome is a condition that causes chronic pain in the pelvic region. When this happens, the veins in your pelvis can enlarge and change shape, like varicose veins. This type of damage causes veins to become varicose. Blockages create backflows of blood because the veins do not close properly anymore. The result is pressure build-up and bulging veins. When this happens in the region of the pelvis varicose veins can affect the uterus, vulva, and ovaries causing great pain and distress.

 It can be diagnosed when it is nonrelated to the menstrual cycle and lasts 6 months or longer (the time frame for a condition to be considered chronic). This condition is aggravated by standing for long periods of time.

How to Diagnose PCS

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome may occur in a wide range of ages for women between 20 and 50 years of age. Additional symptoms can include abnormal menstrual bleeding, irritable bladder, vaginal discharge and even visible varicose veins present on the thighs, vulva or buttocks. These areas are often overlooked and do not show up on imaging. Because of this, it is often tough to diagnose. Make sure you do a thorough at-home mirror check of your entire body and report any abnormalities to your doctor.

If pelvic pain worsens later in the day or when standing yet you can’t seem to get a proper diagnosis to come into Tampa Cardiovascular Associates we are able to work in conjunction with your gynecologist.

The Treatment

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with IV sedation. The blood supply to the veins is blocked by the use of coils and embolic agents. An 80% pain reduction has been reported by those who have undergone this procedure.

Pelvic congestion syndrome is treated using minimally invasive, non-surgical, trans-catheter techniques. Contrast dye may be injected to confirm which veins are affected. If varices are found on venography, they are embolized with small coils or other FDA approved chemical agents.

The Recovery

The first of two visits is an overnight admission to the hospital. The purpose is for managed pain care during the first 24 hours. The patient is then discharged and can recover at home using oral pain medication for the relief of discomfort. Any pain experienced is most significant during the first three days after either procedure.

The second is an outpatient appointment. Most patients see great improvement. It is important to note that in some cases other pelvic veins are also affected and may require further treatment in the future.

If you are experiencing pelvic pain that seems outside the scope of normal monthly reproductive cycle issues, please give us a call at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates at 813-975-2800. www.TampaCardio.com

03.04.20
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Sun Exposure – What You Need to Know When it Comes to Varicose and Spider Veins

Sun-exposure-vein-health-West-Florida-Vein-center

Sun exposure vein health West Florida Vein centerSummer in the sunshine state means shorts, bathing suits, and cool summer wear. It can be massively frustrating and limiting to have vein issues. It is just too hot out to be wearing long pants all the time.

Sunscreen and Vein Issues

Most of us do wear sunscreen when laying out getting some sun. Wearing sunscreen can deter UVB and UVA rays from doing skin damage, skin aging or stimulating cancer cells. While many are aware of the dark spots or wrinkles the sun may cause but what many don’t think about how sun exposure can egg on spider veins to form on the nose or cause already active vein disease in the body to worsen. With people currently flocking to South West Florida for the end of the beach season, it’s important to be aware of how to protect your skin from the sun whether it’s on the beach or just gardening in the yard.

Does the Sun Cause Varicose and Spider Veins?

This is a complicated answer. The sun can cause spider veins. It cannot cause varicose veins.

Many people believe a good tan will hide the appearance of spider veins, which is true. However, it’s a temporary measure and one that can backfire if you get too much sun, causing even more spider veins to spread.

Varicose veins: On the other hand, varicose veins are never created by the sun. However, veins that are diseased may worsen in hot weather. The sun’s heat can cause the veins to dilate and enlarge causing venous distention. Venous distention is a condition in which veins swell due to being filled with more blood than is needed. An increase in blood and size means swelling and pain.

Spider Veins: The sun breaks down collagen under the skin and in blood vessels right beneath the surface causing spider veins to appear. Sun exposure may also cause veins in your face to do the same, especially in light-skinned individuals.

Is the Sun to Be Avoided?

In general, no. However, after vein removal procedures it is important to protect the skin. Doctors recommend that people who have undergone vein treatment surgery should remain out of the sun anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks. Sunshine may cause pigment changes in the skin. Once the doctor clears you to go in the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen to the area to protect the skin.

 

What Is the Best Time of Year to Get Veins Treated?

The winter months are the ideal time to get skin looking healthy for the summer. Most people don’t think of their veins during the colder months because we wear so much clothing, but it can make life a lot easier to get problems fixed before summer beach weather returns.

Winter Treatment is Ideal:

  • Compression hose are often worn before and after varicose vein procedures. These stockings are easier to wear or hide in cooler months.
  • Veins can worsen in cold weather months due to lack of activity.
  • Veins could require additional treatments, so there is plenty of time to be ready for the warmer weather.

 More About Sun Exposure and Veins

If you have concerns about sun exposure on your spider or varicose veins or have any other questions about treatments, schedule an appointment with a vein specialist. If you are in the greater Tampa area, you can schedule a visit with Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center at (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

02.10.20
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Vein Ligation and Stripping – The Recovery Process, What to Expect

When a patient decides to have any type of procedure performed it is important that each detail not only of the procedure but also of the recovery expected is to be discussed. No one likes surprises when it comes to their health and healing.

Though the vein treatment may take only a few minutes, your body will need some additional care and rest afterward.

Your own recovery time may vary. Everyone recovers at a slightly different rate. This is based on the average experience of all of our patients.

What to Expect Post Vein Ligation and Stripping

Please continue to wear tight compression dressings for the first 3 days post-surgery. If you have stitches they will dissolve on their own or your doctor will let you know they need to be removed if non-dissolvable within 14 days.

Make sure to rest for 3 to 7 days. Veins removed will be immediately nonvisible. Those injected will take time to fully dissolve and disappear from sight.

Your legs may feel a little stiff or sore for a few weeks. We do prescribe pain medication to manage this so your recovery period is comfortable. Your legs in the areas they worked on may be slightly bruised.

Self Care at Home

  1. Get plenty of sleep
  2. Limit activity for a few days as instructed by your physician
  3. Walk. Add a few more steps each day
  4. Avoid strenuous activities
  5. Prop your legs up on a pillow many times throughout the day
  6. Do not drive until you are given the go-ahead
  7. You may shower after the compression dressing comes off. Please do not take a bath for the first two weeks.
  8. Take all medicine as directed
  9. Ice and elevate. 10-20 minutes at a time. 
  10. Follow up with your physician as directed.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to call – especially during your recovery. 

Schedule your consultation today: www.westfloridaveincenter.com (727) 712-3233.

02.02.20
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Reasons to Make an Appointment With a Cardiologist in Tampa, Florida

Cardiologist-tampa-tampa-cardio-1

You may never have considered visiting a Cardiologist. The very thought scares some people. The idea that there may possibly be something ‘wrong’ with your heart isn’t pleasant.

The fact is if there happens to be something going on with your heart it is by far better to find out and treat it as soon as possible in order to get the very best outcome. We would also like to note that some visits do end with a diagnosis of ‘nothing at all wrong with your heart’. There are several medical issues that can mimic heart problems.

Most patients don’t jump directly to visiting a Cardiologist. Consultations are mostly recommended by a patient’s primary care doctor as a result of either heightened risk factors for cardiovascular disease or symptoms that indicate it may already be an issue.

The number one killer in the world is heart disease. It affects 80 million people. Physicians are well aware of the stakes in early detection.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease

  • Major risk factors include:
  • Genetics – Immediate family members affected and diagnosed already.
  • Heightened blood pressure readings.
  • Raised cholesterol levels.

These may prompt your primary doctor to refer you to a cardiologist.

A genetic history of heart disease may be the catalyst for an evaluation or for low-level tests to check heart function. Depending on the results, you may continue to be monitored by your primary care physician or be given a clean bill of health.

Symptoms causing patients to seek cardiology care may include:

  • Arrhythmias (Rhythm disturbances) can include palpitations or missed heartbeats.
  • Angina (chest pain or discomfort)- This often indicates narrowed arteries.
  • Inability to catch your breath. This may indicate congestive heart failure or valve issues.
  • A cardiac event, such as a heart attack.

If you are in need of an excellent cardiology team in Tampa, Florida we invite you to take a look at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. This world-renowned team of physicians can handle any form of cardiac issue. We would love the opportunity to review your medical history with you, do a physical exam, and help get you on the right track to your best cardiac health possible.

Give us a call at 813-975-2800 or visit us online bygone to www.tampacardio.com. We are located conveniently at 3010 E. 138th Avenue, Suite 12 in Tampa, Florida 33613.

12.21.19
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The Effect of Sugar Addiction on Your Heart

Tampa Cardio sugar-and-your-heart-health

Tampa Cardio sugar-and-your-heart-healthSugar hits the pleasure center of the brain in the same way that hard drugs do. This makes refined sugar extremely addictive and very hazardous to your health. Moderation is key and elimination even better.

Until recent years not all that much study had been done on sugar. It was a well-known household dietary staple. The harmful effects of a diet high in sugar are becoming more publicly known, many are still unaware.

The fact is, your sugar intake could very well be harming your health now and into the future. Let’s take a look at how sugar affects the body.

  1. Sugar can compound depression. Though little known or recognized sugar has an effect on mental and cognitive function. It may offer one explanation as to why you feel drained in a short time after eating something sugary. It has also been scientifically linked to anxiety and memory lapses later in life.
  2. Sugar begets heart disease. Heart disease is still the top cause of death worldwide. Recent studies show that a high sugar diet could be a major contributing factor. Elevated levels of fructose can raise your insulin and blood glucose, as well as lead to obesity.
  3. Sugar causes dental issues. The obvious statement of the bunch,  sugar sticks to your teeth and feeds the bacteria. Over time, teeth can decay as a result causing cavities.
  4. Sugar adds weight. If you eat a lot of sugar, you are going to have a higher risk of being overweight.
  5. Sugar is bad for your liver. Excessive sugar consumption will have a similar effect on the liver as if you were an alcoholic. This is because sugar, which turns into fat, becomes lodged in the liver. That can develop into non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
  6. Cancer cells feed on sugar. Numerous studies have shown that there is a connection between sugar consumption and cancer. Sugar consumption creates elevated insulin levels so the body can’t properly regulate the abnormal growth and multiplication of unwanted cells potentially leading to cancer or feeding already existing cancerous cells.
  7. Sugar can spur type II diabetes. Excess sugar can result in insulin resistance, which in turn can result in a highly toxic excess of glucose in the blood. This can cause a number of conditions to develop, perhaps the worst of which is type II diabetes.
  8. Sugar is addictive. Sugar attaches to the same pleasure centers in the brain that result from doing street drugs and opiates. It is equally as addictive. It may be hard for people to practice moderation when it comes to junk food, and when trying to quit, they may experience withdrawal symptoms.

For further guidance that you can trust, make an appointment with the onsite nutritionist available at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates by calling (813) 975-2800.

Our physicians dedicated to keeping your heart health at its best. We’ll do anything we can to help you improve your everyday quality of life through important lifestyle choices. Visit www.tampacardio.com to learn more about our practice.