The importance of blood reaching all body parts cannot be overstated. Without a regular supply of oxygenated blood, various body parts will not function effectively. The limbs are especially susceptible to receiving less blood. This can lead to a vascular condition known as peripheral artery disease. Read on to learn more about this condition, how to identify the symptoms, and when you should seek help.
What is peripheral artery disease?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a circulatory disorder that develops when arteries become narrow and cut off blood supply to the limbs. When the condition occurs, your arms and legs do not receive enough blood rich in oxygen.
A lack of oxygenated blood can result in various complications. The most common complication associated with the condition is claudication, or pain in your legs when you walk. This condition can also serve as an early warning sign of fatty deposits and buildup in the arteries.
Up to 40 % of people with PAD do not exhibit symptoms until the condition has progressed. For those who may show symptoms, the most common is leg pain, especially when you’re walking, lifting heavy objects, or exercising. This pain may subside when after you rest.
Other symptoms associated with the disorder include aches and cramps in the buttock, calf, hip, and thigh areas. In addition, you may notice several physical signs of the condition, including;
- Loss of hair on your legs
- Smooth shiny leg skin
- The skin feels cold when you touch it
- Reduced sensitivity in the feet and especially toes
- Ulcers that don’t heal
- Numb and cold toes
Risk factors associated with peripheral artery disorder
Most of the risk factors tied to this condition are the result of poor lifestyle choices. However, it is noteworthy to mention that some groups are more likely to develop PAD than others. For example, Hispanics and African-American demographics are more prone to developing
peripheral artery disease.
The most common risk factors that can lead to PAD include;
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Atherosclerosis
- High blood pressure
- Age (60 years and above)
By avoiding and regulating the risk factors mentioned above, you can reduce the chances of developing PAD. Essentially, this means improving your lifestyle habits and choices by;
- Quitting smoking
- Controlling your blood sugar levels
- Exercising regularly
- Managing your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Eating foods with lesser saturated fats
- Managing your weight
Complications related to peripheral artery disease
If the root cause of PAD is plaque buildup in the blood vessels, it may lead to other conditions.
These include;
1. Heart attacks and stroke – Atherosclerosis is when saturated fats, cholesterol, and other foreign material build up in the artery walls. However, this buildup is not limited to the limbs.
Atherosclerosis can also affect arteries that supply blood to the brain and heart, leading to strokes and heart attacks.
2. Critical limb ischemia – This is a condition that begins as wounds and open sores on the legs and feet. However, these open sores do not heal but instead lead to tissue death. In most cases, the affected limb will have to be amputated.
When should you see a doctor?
Ideally, if you are in the abovementioned demographics or associative risk factors, you should consult your doctor for regular screening and testing procedures. Moreover, if you are experiencing leg pain and numbness, you should visit a vascular specialist.
Treatment options may include the prescription of antiplatelet medications like aspirin. Your doctor may also advise you to start taking medication to help manage your blood cholesterol.
Where can you get help for PAD?
Washington Vascular Specialists offers quality care services for peripheral artery disease patients. The facilities are equipped with the latest technological advancements in the medical field to help monitor, manage and treat the condition.
Peripheral artery disease is a serious vascular condition that requires timely care and professional intervention for the best results. If you suspect you might have the condition based on the aforementioned symptoms or you fall under the risk factor categories, you should seek help as soon as possible. Book a one-on-one appointment with a vascular specialist today.
