Leg pain and circulation care
Leg cramps when you walk, slow-healing sores or swollen legs can point to a circulation problem. FCCI tests for and treats artery and vein disease. Call 904.644.0092.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
PAD is when arteries in the legs narrow and blood flow drops. FCCI lists signs like discomfort when walking, cramping, non-healing wounds, swelling or color changes in the legs.
Dr. Al-Saghir's profile explains that interventional techniques now treat peripheral vascular disease, including PAD in the legs. FCCI's cath lab uses tools like balloons, stents and atherectomy devices to restore blood flow. FCCI is proud of its history in preventing amputations, and says amputation should always be the last resort.
Do not ignore a sore on the foot or leg that will not heal, especially if you have diabetes. Early care gives you the most options.
Carotid artery disease and stroke
The carotid arteries in your neck carry blood to your brain. FCCI notes that carotid artery disease is one of the most common causes of stroke, and finding it early matters. A carotid duplex ultrasound takes about 30 minutes.
Dr. Al-Saghir was the first board-certified cardiologist in Clay County to perform carotid stenting, at Orange Park Medical Center. If you have chest pain, pressure, sudden shortness of breath, fainting, or signs of a stroke like face drooping, arm weakness or trouble speaking, call 911 right away. Do not drive yourself and do not wait for an appointment.
Vein problems and leg swelling
Chronic venous insufficiency happens when leg veins cannot move blood back to the heart well. It can cause varicose veins, leg pain, swelling, skin changes and ulcers. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a deep leg vein and needs prompt care.
FCCI's Vein Clinic offers a free vein screening, an ultrasound of the leg that takes about 20 minutes. Call 904.644.0092 to ask where screenings are offered and to book.
Wearing loose clothing and shorts makes leg ultrasounds easier. Tell the technologist about any recent surgery, long trips or prior clots.
Why a heart team for your legs?
Artery disease in the legs often goes along with artery disease in the heart and neck. FCCI's team includes cardiovascular, endovascular, vascular, wound care and pulmonary specialists, so you can get a full picture under one practice.
FCCI's Vein Clinic also notes that sometimes symptoms that look like vein disease turn out to be something else. When that happens, FCCI's team of cardiovascular, sleep medicine, wound care and pulmonary specialists can pick up the trail without sending you to start over somewhere new. Questions about any of this? Call 904.644.0092 and talk with a real person at the Orange Park front desk, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Talk with a specialist.
New patients are welcome. Call 904.644.0092, Mon to Fri, 8am to 5pm, or request a visit online.
What causes leg pain when walking?
One cause is PAD, narrowed leg arteries. Other causes exist, so a simple vascular ultrasound can help sort it out. Call 904.644.0092.
Is a vein screening free?
FCCI offers a free vein screening of about 20 minutes. Call to ask where and when.
When is leg swelling an emergency?
Sudden swelling in one leg with pain, or swelling with shortness of breath or chest pain, needs urgent care. Call 911 for chest pain or trouble breathing.