September 23, 2022
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common condition involving narrowed arteries. Due to blockages in the veins, blood flow is slowed or restricted. This can lead to pain, sensory issues, and even an increased risk of other life-threatening conditions like a heart attack or stroke. Why is it important to learn about this disease and its risk factors? And why should you visit a peripheral arterial disease specialist in Louisiana? Discover more about this condition from Cardiovascular Institute of the South.
What is peripheral artery disease?
Begin by understanding what this disease is, what causes it, and which symptoms are associated with it. This condition affects the peripheral vascular system. These arteries, located in the arms, legs, hands, and feet, pump oxygen throughout the body and send deoxygenated blood back to the heart. PAD occurs when these arteries become clogged by fatty deposits, making them unable to supply oxygen to your limbs.
When it comes to the symptoms of PAD, 4 in 10 people experience no pain at all. But for others, the effects can be severe. Symptoms of this condition include:
Pain from this condition can be inflamed by movement and exercise, but it can also occur after periods of rest. If you experience painful symptoms or numbness in the legs or any of these other symptoms, contact your peripheral arterial disease specialist to learn about your diagnosis and treatment options in Louisiana.
Are my lifestyle habits causing this issue?
Your daily habits can have a direct impact on a PAD diagnosis. High cholesterol levels, fatty diets, and smoking can place excess pressure on the veins and lead to plaque buildup within the arteries. Aside from personal lifestyle habits, radiation exposure, injuries, inflammation, genetics, and aging can all be associated factors for developing this condition.
If you are at risk for PAD, make sure to consult with your doctor about your best options for prevention. This may include medication and treatment paired with healthy habits. Abstaining from smoking, eating minimal saturated fats, exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol level can all be effective first steps toward prevention.
What are my treatment options with a peripheral arterial disease specialist?
A cardiologist can help to diagnose your condition and determine its severity. At Cardiovascular Institute of the South’s Leg & Vein Center, we are equipped to diagnose and treat a variety of vein conditions. To monitor the health of your arteries, our specialists will use a range of diagnostic testing to spot blockages or other concerns. This may include listening to movement in the arteries, measuring blood flow, or using X-ray or angiography imaging to view the arteries and blood vessels.
If your doctor deems treatment for PAD necessary, there is a wide range of procedures available. Bypass surgery reroutes blood from a closed or blocked artery into healthy, functioning arteries. The effects of this procedure may relieve PAD symptoms, improve blood flow, and offer results that last for years. Minimally invasive procedures, laser treatments, and medications are also available. Talk with your peripheral arterial disease specialist in Louisiana to find the right treatment option for you.
How do I make changes for the better?
If you’re ready to make important changes for your health, it’s time to visit Cardiovascular Institute of the South. Whether you are interested in general health screening, preventative measures, or beginning treatment for your diagnosis, a peripheral arterial disease specialist can help you find the right solutions to your needs. New and returning patients can request an appointment online from the comfort of their homes. If you have any questions regarding doctors, services, or scheduling, you can also call your closest clinic location. Our specialists look forward to helping you learn more about PAD and your treatment options.