Tag Archives: vein doctor tampa

01.01.22
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What You Should Know About Vein Disease

West Florida Vein Center

West Florida Vein CenterVaricose veins are only a symptom of vein disease. While they can be problematic, they are not the only bodily effect. If you have chronic insufficiency of the venous system, you may also experience leg ulcerations on the skin that are very hard to heal as well as discoloration of the skin around the ankles.

Those with CVI also often report feeing tightness in their calves, swelling, and itching as well as pain. These are all made worse with movement and feel a bit better when at rest.

Why does Chronic Venous Insufficiency Occur?

CVI is a condition that occurs when veins responsible for pumping blood back towards the heart are unable to do their job any longer due to deterioration and weakness. The blood instead becomes pooled uncomfortably within the veins forcing them to expand and wear down.

This medical condition most commonly occurs in the legs, as it these veins that must fight the hardest against the forces of gravity in order to pump blood upwards towards the heart. While chronic venous insufficiency in itself does not pose a serious threat, it can be extremely uncomfortable for any patient who experiences it and may also present signs that other associated conditions are present, associated conditions which can pose serious threats.

Causes
The causes of CVI are quite varied, and like other venous disorders, typically develop from a combination of both genetic and individual lifestyle factors. Those who are older or who have a family history of vein disease are more likely to develop CVI, and while it was once thought that women are more affected than men, recent research has shown that both men and women are equally susceptible. Factors that are within a patient’s control include obesity, smoking, lack of exercise or general inactivity, or working in a profession that requires long periods of sitting or standing. In addition, CVI can also develop because of injury to an area or as an associated condition to such disorders as high blood pressure or deep vein thrombosis, the latter of which is a very serious venous condition.

Prevention
The recommendations for preventing chronic venous insufficiency are nearly identical to the recommendations given for maintaining your vein health in general. This advice includes maintaining a healthy diet and body weight, remaining active and getting frequent exercise, quitting smoking if applicable, and protecting your legs from trauma or injury. If you travel frequently or work in a profession that limits your movement, try to work in as many breaks as you can to move around and get your circulation going.

If any of the above symptoms sound familiar to you or you feel that you may be at risk for developing CVI in the near future, especially if your family history or personal history indicates such risk, then please contact Dr. Zuzga at the West Florida Vein Center today to schedule a vein screening by calling (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

 

04.03.21
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Can How You Dress Affect Your Vein Health? – Absolutely Can!

wardrobe-and-circulatory-health-west-florida-vein-center

wardrobe-and-circulatory-health-west-florida-vein-centerWearing certain clothing styles has been linked directly to aggravation of varicose and spider veins. 

Because varicose veins are bulging, ropy, and red or purplish in color, they tend to really stand out no matter where they are located on the body, though they are most commonly present on the legs.

Also because varicose veins are so noticeable, and not in a good way, it should come as no surprise that those who are affected by them generally try to hide their appearance. Typically, this involves wearing pants year-round, which if you live in Southern Florida, can definitely present a problem.

Now that you know how your veins are affecting the way you dress; you should consider how the way you dress is affecting your veins. While the clothing that you wear will not lead to the development of varicose veins in themselves, your clothing can contribute to the level of comfort or discomfort that you feel daily.

Tight Clothing
It may seem contradictory that compression stockings are recommended for those with venous disease, and yet, at the same time, tight clothing can contribute to the development of varicose veins. While compression stockings were specially designed to apply certain levels of compression to certain areas of the legs and feet, simply wearing tight clothing will not have the same beneficial effects.

Tight clothing, especially items that are more constrictive around the legs and waist, can have detrimental effects on the veins in the long term. This is because they restrict the normal circulation of blood, obstructing the flow of blood from the legs back to the heart, resulting in an increase in pressure within the veins.

High Heels

Wearing high heels may initially make your legs look better while you are wearing them but can only make things worse in the long run if special care is not taken.

Walking in high heels changes the natural motion of your legs and feet, shifting your weight from the calves into the toes and forefoot instead. This results in a less forceful calf muscle pump, which in turn results in the pooling of blood within the leg veins.

Because the higher the heel is, the more negative the results, vein specialists usually recommend keeping heels low and only wearing them during special events or occasions. If you typically wear stockings when in heels, it is also recommended that you wear compression stockings whenever possible, as they can ease the symptoms of venous insufficiency and are virtually indistinguishable in appearance from regular stockings.

Compression Stockings

Compression stockings are a special type of hosiery designed specifically to prevent varicose veins from forming and to prevent the progression of current varicose veins from getting worse. Built to compress the legs in specific ways and locations, compression stockings can greatly relieve venous pressure along with much of the discomfort that comes as a result.

Compression stockings are tightest at the ankles and become progressively looser towards the thighs, increasing arterial pressure and allowing more blood to reach the heart and less blood to pool in the feet and ankles. While compression stockings are sometimes prescribed by physicians, they are available over-the-counter in most drug stores and pharmacies.

For more information on venous insufficiency treatments and home remedies for pain or discomfort associated with varicose veins, or to discuss whether a compression stockings prescription is right for you,
contact Dr. Zuzga of West Florida Vein Center today
at (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

 

12.22.19
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Natural Vein Health Support

varicose-veins-natural-remedies West florida vein

varicose-veins-natural-remedies West florida veinVaricose veins are not only a visual distraction they are also often painful and uncomfortable. Lifestyle alterations can help – exercising more regularly, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight – all can do wonders. While the best options to permanently eliminate varicose veins are medical in nature there are some natural things you can do at home which may help support vein health overall.

Looking to nature’s medicine cabinet you may find some relief with the following vitamins and herbs.

B Vitamins – B vitamins can lower your cholesterol and improve your overall circulation, with B12 and B6 being specially recommended for those at risk of developing blood clots.

Vitamin C – vitamin C is important for the production of collagen and elastin, tissues that help to keep vein walls strong and flexible, helping greatly to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with varicose veins.

Vitamin E – often used alongside vitamin C, vitamin E is important for improving blood flow and general circulation, and also reduces the stickiness of blood platelets to assist those who are at particular risk for blood clot formation.

Gotu Kola – also known as Centella Asiatica, Gotu kola is an effective herb in treating varicose veins because it encourages healthy blood flow, promotes vein flexibility, and tones the connective tissues which surround the veins.

Bilberry – often sold as a companion product to Gotu kola, bilberry is an antioxidant herb that improves blood flow by strengthening capillaries.

Horse Chestnut Seed – typically sold as an over-the-counter supplement called Venastat, horse chestnut seed extract helps varicose veins by reducing fluid retention, swelling, and inflammation.

Butcher’s Broom – an herb that has proven to be especially effective when used in combination with horse chestnut seed, butcher’s broom works by strengthening the walls of blood vessels.

For more information on natural remedies for varicose vein treatment and prevention, contact Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center today at (727) 712-3233.

*Please check with your doctor prior to taking any vitamins or supplements for your venous condition. While the supplements listed above have been proven to be safe in most situations,  it is always best to double-check with a professional before taking anything that might interact negatively with any current medications or conditions.

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.

09.10.19
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Varicose Veins – Think You Know the Facts?

veins-tampa-florida-tampa-cardio-vein-center

veins-tampa-florida-tampa-cardio-vein-centerOur circulatory system is an amazing mechanism. Veins run throughout our entire body. They feed blood to every organ and cellular tissue. When veins sustain damage from trauma or vein disease – venous insufficiency they begin stages of venous insufficiency. 

Damage to valves along with pooling blood is the cause of varicose veins. Though varicose veins are sometimes thought of as a cosmetic issue the effects can be medical as well. Varicose and damaged veins can lead to leg pain, swelling, ulceration, itching, aching, and even death of areas of flesh due to decreased circulation.

Even if you know the basics, we thought we would share some interesting vein facts that you might not know:

  • Veins are more defined during strenuous exercise. This is due to increased arterial pressure. Blood that would normally be resting in capillaries during a work out is now forced into the surrounding muscle. This is what is known as a “pump”.
  • One of the very first drawings of vein disease was on a tablet dating back to the 4th century in Greece.  The carving shows a man gripping a disembodied leg with a big bulging vein on it.
  • The human body can form new pathways and vessels if one becomes blocked! The process is called angiogenesis. This is the way that your body heals if you get a cut or scrape. Your body will compensate for the lack of blood flow in any way that it can. It is best though to seek medical attention if you notice that you have problems with varicose veins. The sooner you seek treatment, the better, less invasive, less expensive, and better the prognosis will be.
  • Strong veins are essential – your heart depends on your veins for nourishment, as does every other organ. If your veins are too weak to get the blood where it goes it can cause pooling, discoloration, and even wounds that are very tough to heal.
  • Pre 17th Century doctors believed there were two blood systems – one where the liver was the organ pumping the blood and another which carried air from the lungs and blood to tissue. It wasn’t viewed as circulating but more of an ebb and flow. It was not until 1682 that Dr. Wiliam Harvey first correctly outlined what our circulatory system actually does and how it works.

You may not be obsessed with anatomy history and facts the way that we are, but we do hope you found this interesting!

If you are looking for a cardiologist or Vein Specialist in the Tampa, Florida area we invite you to visit WWW.TAMPACARDIO.COM or give us a call to set a consultation by calling 813-975-2800.

09.05.19
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Reduce Alcohol Intake for Vein Health

varicose-veins-alcohol-Dr-zuzga-

varicose-veins-alcohol-Dr-zuzga-That’s right. The health of your veins can be majorly impacted by what you choose to put in your body. Alcohol being one of the very worst offenders when it comes to damaging vein and circulatory health.

Vein disease can begin because of family genetics and you are even more prone if you are a woman. The good news is that there are many factors completely within your control. Weight, diet, activity level, and lifestyle including drinking excessively and or doing drugs can have a big effect on health.

When it comes to health and diet, people are quick to analyze what they are eating but often overlook what they drink. Excessive alcohol consumptions effect on varicose veins is a lesser contributing factor, but it should nevertheless be taken into account when considering potential causes of venous insufficiency.

Varicose veins are caused due to a circulatory malfunction. It is a fact that alcohol affects blood circulation so it should come as no shock that the two are intertwined. The body’s circulatory system consists of the heart, veins, valves, and arteries. They all assist in pumping blood from the heart, through the body, then returned to the heart once again.

Blood is pumped back up to the heart through the veins by way of a series of one-way valves that open in the direction of the heart closing immediately after the blood has passed. When valves are damaged they are unable to prevent a backflow of blood. This backwash causes pressure to build up in the veins which result in the swollen, bulging, and enlarged appearance associated with varicose veins.

When alcohol is consumed it increases the heart rate. This makes your entire circulatory system work harder as a result. Because alcohol intake also has a direct effect on a person’s liver, which is responsible for filtering blood as it is circulated, alcohol attacks the veins from multiple angles. When the liver is unable to properly filter the blood of toxins and waste, the blood becomes thicker and more viscous, making it even harder for those already fragile leg veins to function properly.

Consuming alcohol does not automatically lead to varicose veins if no other risk factors are present, it can make the development of varicose veins and venous insufficiency far more likely in those people who are predisposed to such conditions or who are already experiencing symptoms.

Dr. Zuzga of West Florida Vein Center is not going to tell you that you should never drink alcohol  again, if your goal is healthy veins he may suggest that it is wise to refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages if varicose veins are already present or if your gender, age, or family history makes you a likely candidate for future venous disease.

Interested to learn more?
Visit www.westfloridaveincernter.com or call (727) 712-3233 to schedule an in-person appointment with Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center.

08.04.19
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Boost Heart Health Nutritionally!

nutrition-tampa-cardio-heart-health

nutrition-tampa-cardio-heart-healthWe were all brought up with the four food groups. Meat & Dairy, Grains, Vegetables & Fruits, and “other”.  It didn’t include or take into account all of this frozen, premade, and fast food we are bombarded with. While technically they still fall into those groups, these foods are chemically altered, GMO, and preservatived to death. There is little to no nutritional value in a lot of it.

It saves us money and hassle, but at what cost are you eating these things on a daily, monthly, yearly, lifetime basis?

Your body needs nutrients to thrive and survive. When it doesn’t get everything it needs it can create nutritional deficiencies. These deficiencies can be hard on your body, mind, health and even individual organs.

Navigating the world of health can be tough. In order to really know exactly what your body needs testing may be in order. Working with a certified nutritional consultant is incredibly helpful and save you a lot of trial and error as well as guesswork and money.

You should see a nutritionist if:

1. You are over the weight you ideally would like to be at

Trying to navigate the world of weight loss on your own can be boggling. There are so many diets, so many conflicting opinions, so many people trying and failing. Fad diets do not work long term. You have to change the way you think about food and what you buy when you shop. Many weight loss and fat burner pills are hard on if not a danger to your heart. Working with a nutritionist can help you set a good path to follow, making it a step by step easy guide along with support.

2. You have food sensitivities or allergies

What is just fine for one person may send another into a bout of hives or anaphylactic shock. Allergies and sensitive can cause headaches, stomach aches, diarrhea, hives, swelling, and yes in the extreme, even shock. If you cannot figure out what is going on with your body or pinpoint exactly what you are having a reaction to, come see us. We can help identify, so you can avoid it or even try therapy to desensitize yourself to it over time.

3. You have a serious medical condition – such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

All of these conditions require a specialized diet. A nutritionist can help you rework your diet to add in items that help heal the body and eliminate anything you may be eating that is detrimental to your health. Food is medicine and it is important to use it wisely.

4. Be proactive and help prevent any future illnesses

Even if you are currently healthy, if you have a family history of heart disease or diabetes you may want to visit a nutritionist to ensure your health stays on track by eating right for your body and genetics. Eating right can improve your mental focus, your appearance, and your overall well being. It can help you age more gracefully, and enjoy life more fully. This really is the best time and best reason of all to seek the knowledge of a nutritionist.

5. Don’t go it alone. Support and help are right here.

We all go into a new way of eating all excited and gung-ho. Sticking to it is the hard part and some times it really helps to have an outside perspective, some accountability, and a Cheerleader on your side. Our nutritionists at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates are here for you every step of the way. We get no more pleasure than watching someone’s body and life transform, especially when we get the honor of playing a part in it.

If you are ready to take that next step and change your health for the better, then please contact Tampa Cardiovascular Associates today, and make an appointment with our on-staff licensed nutritionist. 813-975-2800. www.tampacardio.com.

08.01.19
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EKG Readings – What They Can Say About Your Heart

EKG tampa cardio

EKG tampa cardioIf your doctor has ever told you “You need an EKG”. You may know the feeling of confusion and worry both in an instant. We do not know how much medical knowledge each of our patients actually have come into our office. We don’t want to insult you by seemingly talking down to you, so sometimes we don’t explain as much as maybe we should.

Today lets take a look at an EKG (Electrocardiogram). It is also sometimes referred to as an ECG. This test can help track and diagnose the heart’s electrical activity. The EKG only takes 10 minutes. It consists of a technician attaching twelve leads directly to your chest to get a readout from each individual line. It measures for a ten second period of time.

What can an EKG show your physician?

An EKG can show if you have experienced a heart attack – While heart attacks generally will cause significant pain and you readily suspect you are having a heart attack, in as many as 45% of cases there are no symptoms at all. You may not even realize it is or has happened. That is what is known as a silent heart attack.

It may not be found unless you have an EKG which sill show your doctor any blockage in your coronary artery which could lead to future events.

An EKG can show if you have a heart arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm). When healthy your heart pumps steadily. If there is a dysfunction in electrical signals being fired it can cause an abnormal heartbeat.

An EKG can show if you are getting enough oxygen to the heart – Your heart requires oxygen to function properly and stay strong. If your heart experiences ischemia (lack of oxygen for a prolonged time) it can begin to die. This leads to heart failure and even possibly death.

An EKG will show heart enlargement – When healthy, your heart is about the size of your fist. Some medical conditions will cause the heart to grow larger, stretching the muscle making it weaker. Causes may include unregulated high blood pressure, aging, heart failure, heart disease, and viral infections.

EKG’s are an important diagnostic tool for Cardiologists. It’s an easy quick test to administer and can help your physician get a more full picture of what is going on with your heart.

We hope this gives you a better understanding of what an EKG is and why one may be recommended.

If you are looking for a great team of cardiologists right here in the Tampa Bay, Florida area give us a call and make an appointment today! (813) 975-2800. www.tampacardio.com.

07.01.19
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Varicose Veins – The Diagnosis

varicose-veins-tampa-cardio

varicose-veins-tampa-cardioWhile you may think it would be very easy to identify vein disease the truth is it doesn’t always show up in the form you might think. Visible purple or blue veins which are lumpy and twisted are a sure sign of varicose veins as well as small wiggly lines that spider web in appearance are spider veins, but many times you may experience leg pain and have no visual cues.

Pain, aching, throbbing and tiredness are all signs you may have vein issues.

Ultrasound is performed by a registered vascular technologist who can find precisely where the leakage is occurring. From there, a logical and effective treatment plan can be set in order to heal the health issue.

Surface layer veins, as well as deep saphenous veins, are both carefully examined in respect to clotting potential and valve function. This exam is an outpatient procedure. It will take approximately 30 minutes per leg, and is best performed at the direction of the Physician Vein Specialist who will be responsible for diagnosis and course of a treatment plan.

If you are in the market for a Tampa Florida Doctor Vein Specialist you are in luck. By simply visiting www.tampacardio.com you have found the best possible treatment in all of Florida.

Our team of well-respected professionals can get you on your way to living the active lifestyle you once enjoyed. The team includes Dr. Vasco Marques

M.D., F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I, R.V.P.I, Dr. Asad Sawar

M.D., F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I, R.V.P.I, Dr. Victor Feliz

M.D., F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I, R.V.P.I, Dr. Octavio Cosme

M.D., F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I, R.V.P.I Claudia Fuego

ARNP, Courtney Pariso MSN, ARNP, Roberta Moore MPH, ARNP-C, Kathleen Dailey

AANP, Jesus Ojeda CNMT, and Jesus Ojeda CNMT as well as an amazing administrative staff.

Click to learn more about each physician or staff member.

At Tampa Cardiovascular Associates, you are in good hands. We know veins inside and out as well as the entire cardiovascular system. This is a truly full-spectrum facility.

Our office is located in Tampa, Florida

3010 E. 138th Avenue, Suite 12

Tampa, Florida 33613

We can be reached by phone by calling (813) 975-2800 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

www.tampacardio.com

06.02.19
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Anxiety and Heart Disease – Is There a Connection?

anxiety

anxiety

Anxiety attacks and heart attacks are often misdiagnosed by the person having them. They feel very similar and are both terrifying.

If you have experienced an anxiety attack you know that it is based in your heart center. You feel it in your chest often in the form of butterflies and even heart palpitations. You may even have an elevated heart rate level during times of raised anxiety and trouble breathing normally.

Anxiety is not healthy, especially on an ongoing basis. Stress can make you physically sick as well as emotionally. When chronic, anxiety can increase your risk for heart issues.

While normal types and amounts of stress are healthy and motivating, being anxious now and then is normal. If it becomes chronic that it may pose a negative threat to your wellbeing.

40 Million people in the USA experience anxiety yearly. 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.

Confusing Anxiety for 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.

The best advice is never to ignore chest pain of unknown source. 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.