Quitting Smoking
Peripheral artery disease, also called PAD, is a type of peripheral vascular disease characterized by blockages in the arteries that are the result of a buildup of plaque. These blockages compromise circulation to the arms, legs, feet, stomach and kidneys, which can lead to fatigue and cramping after activity or exercise. The risks for strokes and heart attacks can also be compounded, being that the blockages are also often seen in the brain and heart. One of the ways to treat PAD is the avoidance or cessation of smoking.
Medical Procedures
When the arteries become too constricted with plaque, a process called angioplasty can be done. This is a medical procedure where a small tube called a catheter is inserted into a blocked artery. This catheter has a small balloon on the end of it that gets inflated, causing the artery to dilate and promote the flow of blood.
Another medical procedure that can be done involves a small, circular wire mesh tube called a stent. This apparatus is placed in a blocked artery with the use of a catheter, where it gets expanded to the shape of the artery. It is then locked in this open position, allowing blood to flow through freely.
Surgery
Sometimes the blockages can be really severe and take up a large portion of the artery. In cases like this, bypass surgery is often performed. This is where blood vessels from other parts of the body are taken out and connected to the area above and below the blockage. This reroutes the flow of blood around the blocked area.
Exercise
Exercise is already known for its many benefits to the body such as weight control, better mobility and elevated brain function. When it comes to peripheral artery disease, the most important benefit is the fact that it improves circulation. According to the American Heart Association, performing exercise three times a week that involves the legs such as walking, treadmill workouts and leg-specific exercises can decrease the symptoms of peripheral artery disease.
Dietary Adjustments
Diet has a lot to do with the development of peripheral artery disease. If cholesterol levels are high, then plaque has an easier time building up in the arteries. To treat this, a diet that involves low amounts of saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol is followed. This includes the avoidance of fast food, deep-fried foods, processed baked goods and red meat.
Medications
Oftentimes with PAD, various medications will be prescribed to help lower cholesterol and blood pressure and to reduce blood clots and improve walking distance. Some examples of these are Cilostazol, Zocor, Lipitor, Tenormin and Sectral.
