Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)

What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral Artery Disease or PAD is a condition where plaque made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances builds up inside your arteries. These deposits (also known as atherosclerosis) narrow the arteries, restricting blood flow and depriving the muscles and tissues in your legs of the oxygen and nutrients they need to function. In the early stages, PAD may not cause noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses, it can cause leg pain, fatigue, and serious complications such as ulcers or even tissue death.

Risk Factors for PAD

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing PAD. The most common include:

• Age: PAD is more common in individuals over 60 years old.
• Tobacco use: Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for PAD.
• Diabetes: Both diabetes and prediabetes significantly increase the risk of developing PAD.
• High blood pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of PAD.
• High cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on the blood vessels and promotes plaque buildup.
• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity can result in poor circulation.
• Family history: A family history of vascular disease, like PAD or heart disease, increases your risk.

Symptoms of PAD

The most common symptoms of PAD are related to reduced blood flow to the legs and may include:

• Claudication: Pain or cramping in the legs that occurs with activity, such as walking, and improves with rest.
• Numbness or weakness: Lack of proper blood supply can cause weakness or numbness in the legs.
• Cold or pale legs: Reduced blood flow can cause the legs to feel cold or appear paler than usual.
• Slow-healing wounds: PAD can cause ulcers or open sores on the legs that are slow to heal.

Diagnosing PAD

If you have any symptoms of PAD, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may begin with a physical exam and review your medical history. A common test to diagnose PAD is the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), which compares blood pressure in your arm with that in your ankle. A significant difference may indicate PAD. Additional tests, such as ultrasound imaging or angiograms, may be required to assess the extent of the blockages.

Treatment for PAD

Managing PAD typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgical procedures. Treatment options include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, and exercising regularly are key to improving circulation and slowing the disease’s progression.
• Medications: Doctors may prescribe medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Cilostazol is commonly prescribed in the early stages of PAD. It works by improving blood flow and reducing the symptoms of claudication by widening the blood vessels in the legs and improving circulation.
• Exercise Programs: Regular walking or other forms of physical activity can improve circulation, reduce symptoms, and help patients walk longer distances without pain.
• Endovascular Procedures: Dr. Sudi and his team specialize in advanced minimally invasive endovascular treatments for PAD. These procedures, such as angioplasty and stenting, help restore blood flow by opening up blocked arteries. These treatments do not require an overnight stay and are typically performed through small incisions, allowing patients to go home the same day.
• Bypass Surgery: In severe cases of PAD, bypass surgery may be needed to create a new route for blood flow around blocked arteries.

What to Expect from PAD Treatment

With proper treatment, patients with PAD often experience a significant improvement in their symptoms. Most people are able to walk longer distances without pain and enjoy a better quality of life. Advanced treatments provided by Dr. Sudi and his team at 360 Vascular Institute help improve blood flow with minimally invasive techniques, meaning no overnight stay is required. The goal of treatment is to improve circulation, alleviate symptoms, and prevent more serious complications, such as amputations.

At 360 Vascular Institute, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of care for PAD patients. Whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or minimally invasive procedures, we work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, helping you lead a healthier and more active life.