Comprehensive Care for Healthy Circulation
Peripheral Artery Disease Evaluation & Treatment
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a vascular condition where arteries in your legs, pelvic area, or arms become narrowed or blocked, usually due to plaque buildup. This limits how much blood can get through and may lead to symptoms like leg pain. This condition is treatable, especially when diagnosed early.
Medical information here is educational and not a substitute for professional care. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
What it is
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is the narrowing or blockage of arteries in the limbs, reducing blood flow and causing leg pain or difficulty walking.
Common symptoms
PAD can cause leg pain, cramping, numbness, or weakness, especially during walking or exercise, and may lead to slow-healing wounds or changes in skin color.
Good news
With early diagnosis and proper treatment, PAD can be managed effectively through lifestyle changes, medications, and procedures that improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.
Symptoms
PAD often causes leg pain, cramping, or fatigue during walking or exercise, which may improve with rest. Other signs can include numbness, weakness, slow-healing wounds, cold or discolored skin, and reduced hair growth on the legs or feet.
Painful cramping in the hips, thighs, or calves during activity
Leg numbness or weakness
Coldness in the lower leg or foot, especially when compared with the other side
Slower growth of toenails
Sores on the toes, feet, or legs that won't heal
Change in the color of the legs
Hair loss or slower hair growth on the legs
Shiny skin on the legs
Is It Urgent?
Call 911 or your local emergency number if an irregular heartbeat is accompanied by fainting, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or occurs after a serious illness or injury.
If symptoms are mild or come and go, schedule an appointment—especially if you have heart disease, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, or a family history of arrhythmias.
Causes & Risk Factors
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) develops when arteries become narrowed or blocked, usually due to plaque buildup. Several factors can increase the risk of PAD, including lifestyle habits, chronic conditions, and age.
Atherosclerosis Buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries.
Smoking Major contributor to artery damage.
Diabetes Increases risk of plaque formation and poor circulation.
High blood pressure Strains and damages arteries over time.
High cholesterol Leads to plaque accumulation in blood vessels.
Age & family history Risk rises after age 50 and with genetics.
How We Diagnose
Diagnosing PAD involves a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. Our team may use physical exams, ankle-brachial index (ABI) tests, ultrasound, or other imaging studies to assess blood flow and identify blockages, allowing us to create a personalized treatment plan.
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
A simple test comparing the blood pressure in your ankle with the blood pressure in your arm to check for blockages.
Ultrasound
Uses sound waves to visualize blood flow and detect blockages.
Angiography
An imaging test that uses dye and special X-rays to see how blood flows through your arteries.
Blood Tests
To check for underlying conditions like high cholesterol or diabetes.
Personalized Treatment Options
Your plan is tailored to your symptoms, type of arrhythmia, and overall health. We focus on safety, relief, and long‑term heart protection.
Lifestyle Modifications
Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress.
Medications
To lower cholesterol, control blood sugar, and prevent blood clots.
Supervised Exercise Programs
Structured walking programs can help improve symptoms and increase walking distance.
Procedures
In some cases, angioplasty, stent placement, or bypass surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow.
Practical Tips for a Healthy, Active Heart
Living Well With Peripheral Artery Disease
Managing peripheral artery disease focuses on improving blood flow, reducing symptoms, and lowering the risk of complications. Lifestyle changes and proper medical care can help you stay active and maintain overall health.
Stay Active
Regular, doctor-approved exercise improves circulation and leg strength.
Heart-Healthy Diet
Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support vascular health.
Quit Smoking
Avoiding tobacco helps prevent further artery damage.
Monitor Symptoms
Track leg pain, wounds, and skin changes to catch problems early.
FAQ
Common Questions About Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects blood flow to the limbs and can lead to discomfort and serious complications. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this condition.
What is PAD?
PAD occurs when the arteries in the legs or arms become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow and causing pain or numbness.
What causes PAD?
PAD is most commonly caused by atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, and can be worsened by smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
What are the symptoms of PAD?
Common symptoms include leg pain or cramping during walking, numbness, weakness, cold or discolored skin, and slow-healing wounds.
How is PAD treated?
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications to improve blood flow, and in some cases, procedures like angioplasty or surgery to restore circulation.
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