Diseases

Veins have valves that keep blood flowing in one direction. Damaged valves allow blood to collect and flow in a backward fashion when the muscles relax. This creates a buildup of pressure in the veins. This buildup causes stretching of the veins which can lead to twisting, slow blood flow, swelling and further incompetence. Eventually, this condition can lead to various disorders known as venous disease.

Deep vein thrombosis (also known as DVT) is a blood clot in a deep vein in the body. This more commonly occurs in the lower legs but can be presents in the arms and thighs. If the vein swells as a result, this is known as thrombophlebitis. If the blood clot breaks loose from the vein, it can make its way to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism.

Arteries carry oxygen rich blood from the heart throughout the body. When there is a narrowing or blockage of an artery, this is known as peripheral artery disease. It is primarily caused by plaque buildup which is called atherosclerosis.

Non-healing, chronic wounds can be a painful experience that affect daily life. When wound healing is stalled, there is usually multiple contributing factors that require a team of doctors to work together. All our providers are Wound Care Certified and treat patients at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital.