St. Anthony's Heart Fair
Vascular Screenings
Free Screenings by Appointment Only - Phone 217-347-1529
St. Anthony’s is providing free vascular screenings during the Heart Fair on Saturday February 20. Appointments are required to participate in these screenings. The screenings offered will test for Peripheral Artery Disease and Carotid Artery disease. The screening will take approximately 15 minutes.
What is Peripheral vascular disease (PVD)?
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a condition similar to coronary artery disease and carotid artery disease. PVD is characterized by blockages in the arteries that supply blood to the legs and is a warning sign that other arteries, including those in the heart and brain, may be blocked as well. Most people with PVD have a higher risk of death from heart attack and stroke.
What is the screening test for Peripheral vascular disease (PVD)?
Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) Screening - An Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) screening is commonly used to test for PVD. This test compares the blood pressure in the arm (brachial pressure) with the blood pressure in the legs. The blood pressure is taken in both arms and both ankles. In a person with healthy blood vessels, the pressure should be higher in the legs than in the arms.
What is Carotid Artery Disease?
Carotid artery disease, also called carotid artery stenosis, is the narrowing of the carotid arteries. These are the main arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain. Carotid artery disease is a major risk factor for ischemic stroke. (This is the most common form of stroke and is usually caused by a blood clot plugging an artery.)
What is the screening test for Carotid Artery Disease?
A carotid ultrasound is a noninvasive, painless screening test for Carotid Artery Disease. This test uses high-frequency sound waves to view the carotid arteries located in the neck. It looks for plaque and determines whether the arteries are narrowed or blocked.
How do I prepare for the Vascular Screening test?
Do not wear high-collared shirts, turtlenecks or heavyweight shirts.
Do not wear a necklace.
Do not wear pantyhose or tight fitting pants at the calves and ankles.
Participants will need to remove their shoes and socks at the screening.
What testing results will I receive?
The results of your screening will be given to you and will not be shared with your personal physician. The screening results are preliminary and are in no way conclusive. The participant is responsible for initiating follow-up with his/her personal physician for any abnormalities identified at the screening.