Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a circulatory condition that affects the blood flow to the limbs, particularly the legs. It is caused by atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup, that reduces the flow of blood in peripheral arteries. It is often characterized by weak or missing pulses in the affected areas. PAD is diagnosed through various tests, including blood tests, Ankle-brachial index (ABI), ultrasound, and angiography. These tests help in identifying conditions related to PAD such as high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and diabetes.
Smoking: The single biggest PAD risk factor that is in your control. It raises your risk for PAD by 400% compared to nonsmokers.
Age: Particularly those older than 60.
Diabetes: Increases the likelihood of PAD.
High Cholesterol: Contributes to arterial plaque.
High Blood Pressure: Makes arteries stiff and hard.
Obesity: Excess weight is a known risk factor
Leg Weakness: Fatigue while walking, especially in the legs.
Color Changes: Changes in the color of your legs.
Temperature Difference: One leg may feel colder than the other.
Hair Loss: Loss of hair on your legs.
Skin Changes: Shiny skin on your legs or skin that looks pale or kind of blue.
Non-healing Wounds: Wounds or sores on your toes or feet that don’t heal well.
Blood Tests: To check for conditions like high cholesterol and diabetes.
Ankle-brachial Index (ABI): Compares blood pressure in the ankle with that in the arm.
Ultrasound: To see how blood moves through the blood vessels.
Angiography: Uses x-rays or MRI scans to look for blockages in the arteries.
Quit Smoking: The single most important step to reduce the risk of complications.
Regular Exercise: Supervised exercise training can dramatically improve symptoms.
Healthy Diet: A diet low in saturated fat can help control blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Angioplasty and Stent Placement: To open clogged arteries.
Bypass Surgery: Creates a path around the blocked artery.
Talk with Dr. Martinez Today: His expertise will set you on the right path to healing.
