Peripheral artery disease is more serious and prevalent than many people realize. Individuals who are at risk of developing this disease need to be aware of the symptoms and the treatment options. This guide is meant to help individuals understand when they need to seek a Carolina heart specialist right away.
What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?
Peripheral artery disease, often abbreviated as PAD, is a condition that causes the arteries of the body to narrow, reducing blood flow. People most often notice the signs of peripheral artery disease in the legs. This artery disease is serious, and the signs should never be ignored or major complications may occur.
What Are the Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease?
Many people are unaware of the signs of peripheral artery disease and do not know they have the condition until it progresses. The following are some of the common symptoms associated with peripheral artery disease. Should a person notice any of these signs, they need to contact a Carolina heart specialist.
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Individuals may experience painful cramps in their calf muscles, thighs, and hips after participating in activities like climbing the stairs or walking for extended periods.
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A person may also find their legs become numb or weak.
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An individual may have PAD if one of their legs stays much colder than the other.
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Another sign of peripheral artery disease is sores on the legs and feet that will not heal properly.
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Hair loss or slow growth on the lower legs could mean a person has PAD.
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Another sign of peripheral artery disease is a lack of or weak pulse in the lower extremities.
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Shiny skin on the legs may also indicate PAD is present.
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For men, erectile dysfunction may also indicate peripheral artery disease.
What Causes Peripheral Artery Disease?
One of the primary causes of peripheral artery disease is atherosclerosis, which is a build-up of fatty plaque in the arteries. Also, individuals may find their PAD is caused by inflammation in the arteries, injuries, or even radiation exposure.
How Is Peripheral Artery Disease Treated?
Just like coronary artery disease, PAD needs immediate treatment or the condition will worsen over time. Peripheral artery disease, in mild cases, is often treated using a watchful approach. An individual will need an angiogram if their symptoms begin to worsen.
During the angiogram, the doctor will view the arteries and blood flow using a special dye. With a balloon catheter, the doctor will widen any arteries that have narrowed. This balloon expands inside the artery wall and increases the width of the artery so blood flows more freely. Doctors may also inject medications into the artery.
Seek Medical Care Right Away
Those who believe they may have PAD need to schedule a doctor’s appointment right away for a diagnosis. Prompt treatment will prevent the progression of the disease.
Carolina Cardiology Associates offers a team of specialized cardiologists who treat a wide array of cardiovascular conditions. They are committed to the health of their patients and work diligently to provide superior patient care.
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City: Rock Hill
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Website: https://www.carolinacardiologyassociates.com/