What is Peripheral Arterial Disease?

Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD) is a condition where the arteries in the legs become narrow or blocked, usually due to a buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. This can limit blood flow, leading to symptoms like leg pain, cramping, and slow-healing wounds.

Symptoms

The legs or arms — usually the legs — don’t get enough blood flow to keep up with demand. This may cause leg pain when walking, called claudication, and other symptoms.

Peripheral artery disease is usually a sign of a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis.

The affected limb, or part of it, may feel numb or weak, and ulcers can develop on it. In severe cases, the reduction in blood flow can cause gangrene, so it is imperative to consult a healthcare provider such as Paik Vascular & Vein Center.

Treatment Options

Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can greatly improve symptoms and overall blood vessel health.

Medications: Doctors might prescribe medications to manage risk factors. For example, antiplatelet drugs (like aspirin) help prevent blood clots, while statins can lower cholesterol levels.

Supervised Exercise Therapy: Joining a structured walking program can boost blood flow and reduce leg pain during activity.

Angioplasty and Stenting: This minimally invasive procedure uses a thin tube (catheter) to open narrowed arteries. A small balloon is inflated to widen the artery, and a stent may be placed to keep it open.

Bypass Surgery: In more severe cases, bypass surgery creates a new route for blood flow around the blocked artery using a graft from another blood vessel.

Endarterectomy: This surgery removes plaque from the walls of the artery to restore normal blood flow.

Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular visits to a vascular specialist are important to track your progress and adjust treatments as needed.

Concerned About Leg Pain or PAD?

Contact Paik Vascular & Vein Center today for a comprehensive evaluation and take the first step toward healthier circulation.