PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE’ CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

Peripheral artery disease (peripheral arterial disease or PAD) is a common blood circulation problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs. When someone develops PAD, usually legs do not get adequate blood flow to keep up with physical generic demand. This causes various symptoms.

Atherosclerosis or widespread accumulation of fat deposits in the arteries might be the cause of PAD as it is considered also a sign of Atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis might cause blood flow reduction to the heart, the brain, and the legs as well. Often, peripheral artery disease could be treated by making some habitual changes.

PAD Causes

The exact causes are not 100% defined, but some main catalysts include:

• Smoking and tobacco consumption.
• High levels of harmful fats and cholesterol in the blood.
• High blood pressure.
• High amounts of sugar in the blood due to insulin resistance.
• Diabetes.
• Ischemic Heart Disease.
• Multiple Strokes.
• Metabolic Syndrome.

Am I At The Risk Of Getting PAD?

Although, many people who have peripheral arterial disease do not have any signs or symptoms, with the fast-based life in Dubai, you should consult your doctor, or even better, a Cardiovascular Surgeon in Dubai. A high-risk potential patient would be:

1. 70 years old or older.
2. 50 year old or older and has a history of smoking or diabetes.
3. Younger than 50 and have diabetes in addition to one or more risk factors for Atherosclerosis.

Common Signs and Symptoms of PAD

People who have P.A.D. may have various symptoms when walking or climbing stairs, which may include:

• Pain
• Numbness
• Aching
• Stiffness or Heaviness in the leg muscles
• Cramping in the affected leg(s)
• Cramping in the buttocks
• Cramping in the thighs, calves, and feet
• Weak or absent pulses in the legs or feet
• Slowly healing sores or wounds on the toes, feet, or legs
• A pale or bluish color to the skin
• A lower temperature in one leg compared to the other leg
• Poor nail growth on the toes
• Decreased hair growth on the legs
• Erectile dysfunction, especially among men who have diabetes

Some of the symptoms like pain, numbness, and aching would go away if the limbs were rested. Since blood, circulation is affected and slowed by the narrowed arteries reducing the flow to the limbs. Resting gives a chance to the limbs to get the needed blood. It relieves the pain but it does not solve the problem!

PAD Treatments

Treatments for peripheral arterial disease include heart-healthy lifestyle changes, medicines, and surgery or procedures based on the diagnosed stage and status. The ultimate goals of the treatment include reducing risk of heart attacks and strokes, and preventing complications.

Disregarding treatment, PAD may progress, resulting in serious tissue damage. In severe cases referred to as critical limb ischemia, the amputation of part of the leg or foot may be necessary. Treatment options include:

• Heart Health-friendly Lifestyle
• Bypass Grafting
• Angioplasty and Stent Placement
• Atherectomy

German Heart Centre is there to provide all the needed help to guarantee you a healthy life. 乌韦·克利马教授博士, one of the most renowned Cardio Thoracic and Vascular Surgeons in Dubai and the world, uses a number of procedures to treat PAD including angioplasty, bypass surgery, thrombolytic therapy and blocked arteries cleaning. Get a consultancy, and improve the quality of your life. Book an appointment today!