Peripheral arterial disease, or PAD, occurs when the arteries of the circulatory system become narrowed or blocked. Blood cannot flow to tissues in the body, which can cause damage or eventual tissue death. PAD increases the risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Treatment can slow or stop the progress of the disease and reduce complications.
Detection
PAD symptoms may not appear until an artery has narrowed by 60 percent or more, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Symptoms in the legs include discomfort, pain during activity, weakness, heaviness or fatigue in the leg muscles when walking. Foot symptoms include burning or aching, redness, recurrence of infection or sores that do not heal. People with symptoms need to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Doctors measure blood pressure in the legs compared with the arms, perform tests that measure blood volume changes in the legs and use vascular ultrasound to test blood circulation. An angiography detects possible blockages. Computerized tomography, or CT, scans and magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, provide images of the blood vessels to help with a diagnosis.
Lifestyle Changes
PAD can bring about complications, so lifestyle changes become a priority for treatment, the Cleveland Clinic says. Because of their increased risk of heart disease, patients are put on low-fat diets to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Smokers with PAD are advised to quit to avoid further risks of heart problems. Moderate exercise programs are recommended for improved oxygen efficiency and to relieve leg pain. Patients who undertake a walking program improve their ability to walk at greater distances without pain, notes MayoClinic.com. Foot care is important to prevent infections that can occur more often in PAD patients. The patients need to examine their feet daily and look for any cuts, blisters, scratches or sores that are recurring or do not heal.
Medication
Medication for high blood pressure or high cholesterol may be prescribed. Aspirin or antiplatelet medication helps reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Prescription medication such as cilostazol can help people walk longer before leg pain develops. Not everyone can use the medication; a doctor can determine if a patient is eligible.
Surgery
Advanced PAD conditions may require surgery, notes the Cleveland Clinic. Angioplasty widens and clears blocked vessels. Stent placements are used to support the cleared vessels. A technique called atherectomy removes blockages. Peripheral artery bypass reroutes blood flow around blood vessel blockage.
