Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a condition that affects millions of Americans. It occurs when fatty deposits build up in the arteries of your legs, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow. This reduced blood flow can lead to pain, cramping, and even tissue death in severe cases.
PAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries. Over time, this reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to the extremities.
Smoking – The leading modifiable risk factor.
Diabetes – Increases plaque buildup and slows healing.
High blood pressure (Hypertension) – Damages artery walls.
High cholesterol – Leads to plaque buildup in arteries.
Obesity – Contributes to increased strain on circulation.
Sedentary lifestyle – Lack of exercise worsens circulation.
Age – Risk increases with age, especially over 50.
Family history – Genetic predisposition plays a role.
Symptoms of PAD
PAD symptoms vary based on severity. In early stages, it may be asymptomatic.
Leg pain: The most common symptom is claudication, a cramping or aching pain in your legs that occurs with activity (like walking) and improves with rest.
Numbness or weakness in the legs: You may experience a feeling of heaviness or weakness in your legs, especially when walking.
Slow-healing sores or ulcers: Open sores on your toes or feet that don’t heal well can be a sign of PAD.
Coldness in the legs or feet: One leg may feel colder than the other.
Changes in skin color: Your legs or feet may appear pale or discolored.
Reduced hair growth: You may notice less hair growth on your legs and feet.
PAD Quiz
Sound familiar? Do you think you suffer from pain, slow healing, numbness, weakness or cold sensation in your legs? Take a short quiz to see if you qualify for a free phone consultation.
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) – A simple, non-invasive test comparing blood pressure in the ankle and arm.
Doppler Ultrasound – Assesses blood flow and blockages.
Angiography (CTA or MRA) – Uses contrast dye and imaging to visualize blockages.
Bypass surgery: In more severe cases, a surgeon may create a bypass using a Blood tests – Check for cholesterol, diabetes, and inflammation.
Treatment Options for PAD
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, preventing progression, and reducing cardiovascular risk.
Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet are essential to manage PAD and prevent further complications.
Medications: Medications can help control cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes, which can improve blood flow.
Angioplasty and Stenting: Interventional radiologists perform this minimally invasive procedure to open narrowed arteries. A small balloon is inserted and inflated to widen the blockage, and a stent may be placed to keep the artery open.
Bypass surgery: In more severe cases, a surgeon may create a bypass using a vein from another part of your body to detour the blocked artery and restore blood flow.
Interventional Radiology for PAD
Interventional radiologists are highly trained physicians who specialize in minimally invasive procedures. They can diagnose PAD using advanced imaging techniques like angiography and offer treatment options like angioplasty and stenting. These minimally invasive procedures offer several advantages over traditional surgery, including:
Smaller incisions: This leads to less pain and a faster recovery time.
Reduced risk of complications: Minimally invasive procedures carry a lower risk of bleeding and infection compared to open surgery.
Faster recovery: You can often go home the same day or the day after the procedure.
FAQ: Common PAD Questions
Can PAD be cured?
PAD cannot be completely cured, but lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures can effectively manage symptoms and slow its progression.
What happens if PAD is left untreated?
Untreated PAD can lead to severe complications such as non-healing wounds, infections, gangrene, and even limb amputation. It also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
How can I prevent PAD?
Prevention includes quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol, and maintaining a healthy weight
What lifestyle changes help manage PAD?
Key lifestyle changes include regular walking or exercise programs, eating a heart-healthy diet, controlling blood sugar, and quitting smoking to improve circulation.
Are there medications for PAD?
Yes, medications such as antiplatelet drugs (aspirin, clopidogrel), cholesterol-lowering statins, and blood pressure medications help manage the condition and reduce risks.
When should I see a doctor for PAD?
If you experience persistent leg pain, slow-healing wounds, numbness, or coldness in your legs or feet, you should see a doctor for evaluation and testing.
When Your Legs Aren’t Going the Distance We all love a good walk, whether it’s through the park, down the beach, or just around the block to grab your morning coffee. But what if those walks start to feel more like a trek through quicksand? Enter Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)—a…
If you are experiencing any symptoms of PAD, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications, such as amputation. As an interventional radiologist, I am here to offer a minimally invasive approach to improve your circulation and quality of life.
