Peripheral Arterial Disease

TREATMENTS

What is Peripheral Arterial Disease?

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when the arteries that carry blood to your limbs, usually your legs, become narrowed or blocked by a buildup of plaque. This reduces blood flow to your extremities, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness.

How Does PAD Happen?

PAD develops over time due to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the artery walls. This buildup narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to your legs. Risk factors for PAD include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity.

Symptoms of PAD

Symptoms of PAD often develop gradually and may vary in severity. Common symptoms include:

Leg pain or cramping when walking (intermittent claudication)
Numbness or coldness in the legs or feet
Slow hair growth on your legs
Weak pulse in your legs or feet
Sores on your legs or feet that heal slowly or not at all
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It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be associated with other health conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Prevention of PAD

Many of the risk factors for PAD are shared with other heart conditions. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of developing PAD. Preventive measures include:

Regular exercise
Maintaining a healthy weight
Eating a balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats
Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Quitting smoking
Managing diabetes
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider

Treatment Options

Treatment for PAD depends on the severity of your symptoms and the extent of the blockage. Options may include:

Lifestyle changes: Exercise, diet, and smoking cessation can improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.
Medications: Medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood clots can help slow the progression of PAD.
Angioplasty and stenting: These procedures can open blocked arteries.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Om Heart Care is a top-tier cardiac clinic committed to offering heart patients quality and compassionate care. Our clinic was established by renowned interventional cardiologist Dr. Priya Palimkar, who has over twenty years of experience. We are dedicated to providing modern treatments and individualized care.

TREATMENTS