Vascular Care and COVID-19: What You Should Know
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with a vascular condition, or if you want a consultation for varicose veins or spider veins, you may be wondering when it might safe to come in for an appointment with one of our vascular specialists at South Florida Surgical Group here in Miami, Florida. We’re happy to report we’re open and here for you! As restrictions have been easing, we’re able to perform a wide variety of services again.
COVID-19 precautions
Though restrictions are easing, we’re still following US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) public health guidelines, including:
- Strict cleaning procedures
- Social distancing
- Mask wearing for all patients and visitors
- Handwashing
If you aren’t feeling well on the day of your appointment, we kindly ask you to reschedule.
Risk of contracting COVID-19
This coronavirus is highly contagious, so everyone should be careful. But having a vein condition like peripheral artery disease is considered an underlying condition that could put you at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection. Follow the CDC guidelines to protect yourself, and make sure your family and friends are doing the same.
Watch for COVID-19 symptoms, which may appear 2-14 days after infection, and get help if you need to, especially if you’re having shortness of breath. Other symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Muscle and/or body aches
- Loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Don’t delay critical vascular care
We certainly understand if you aren’t comfortable seeking care for a vascular condition yet. We can assure you we’re taking all precautions to keep everyone safe, but the choice is ultimately yours.
However, if you’re diabetic, it’s important to stay on top of your vascular care. You may already have circulation problems in your legs that could lead to infections like skin ulcers or to deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a potentially life-threatening condition where a blood clot develops in a deep vein in the legs. You may have pain, tenderness, and/or swelling. DVT is dangerous because the blood clot could break free and travel to your lungs. If you think you have DVT, make an appointment to see us right away, or go to the emergency room if you need to.
Considerations
A recent study showed COVID-19 can damage blood vessels and cause life-threatening blood clots known as widespread thrombosis. These blood clots could travel to your heart, lungs, or brain. That makes vascular care a priority.
If you still aren’t sure whether to make an appointment now or wait until COVID-19 dies down, give us a call at 305-279-9522. We’ll listen to your concerns and provide our recommendations based on your health needs. You can also request an appointment online with one of our skilled vein specialists.