Health

Effective Management Techniques for Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory condition that often affects middle-aged individuals. In some cases, PAD may advance to a critical level making it difficult to live your life to the fullest. The Davenport peripheral arterial disease experts offer exceptional treatments that guarantee long-lasting relief.

How can PAD be described?

Peripheral Artery Disease is a life-threatening circulatory condition in which your arteries become too narrow to allow adequate blood flow to your arms and legs. This circulatory disease is usually a result of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is caused by a gradual accumulation of fatty deposits on the walls of your arteries, restricting blood flow to your body parts. In rare cases, blood vessel inflammation, exposure to radiation, and leg injury may cause peripheral artery disease. If not treated timely, it may cause a heart attack or stroke and other serious complications that may put your life in jeopardy.

How can you know if you have PAD?

 PAD may go unnoticed for a long time, and you can only know of its existence during a comprehensive medical exam due to the absence of symptoms. The most common symptom of peripheral arterial disease is cramping or excruciating pain in your limbs after a short walk that goes away after resting for a few minutes. The severity of the pain and discomfort may vary depending on the intensity of the physical activity. Some of the common symptoms of the peripheral arterial disease include:

  •               Heaviness and fatigue in your legs
  •               Discolored skin
  •               Leg cramping
  •               Leg pain
  •               The slow growth of nails
  •               Shiny legs due to reduced hair growth
  •               Extreme discomfort in your legs when exercising

If not treated promptly, PAD can advance, leading to the development of severe arterial obstruction. Over time it may result in critical limb ischemia, a condition that occurs due to an inadequate supply of blood to support and nourish your body tissues. Critical limb ischemia causes a dramatic increase in pain and other symptoms, making it hard for you to carry out your day-to-day activities. PAD can deteriorate over time and cause a complete blockage in your arteries, leading to tissue death that could prompt amputation.

What are the risk factors for PAD?

Some of the factors that may put you at risk of developing PAD include:

  •               Obesity
  •               Hypertension
  •               Sedentary lifestyle
  •               Smoking
  •               Diabetes
  •               Age

Dr. Pal may recommend lifestyle adjustments to reduce your chances of developing PAD. If he diagnoses you with PAD after a physical exam, he can create a personalized treatment plan for you.

How can PAD be treated and managed?

Dr. Pal has years of experience in treating PAD, and he offers personalized medical care during your in-office treatments. After conducting tests such as MRI, CT scans, and cardiopulmonary exercise tests, Dr. Pal discusses the possible ways for restoring healthy blood circulation to your limbs. Dr. Pal may recommend treatments like atherectomy or angioplasty to open blocked arteries. If you have chronic kidney disease, you may require a stent to prevent your arteries from closing.

For a consultation or more information about PAD, treatments call Dr. Pal or book your spot online.

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