Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a condition in which the arteries that carry blood to the legs and feet become narrowed by fatty deposits called plaque. As less blood reaches the muscles and skin of the legs, individuals experience pain while doing any activity. Even minor injuries take longer to heal.
It can also pose a threat to joint health in severe cases. People who smoke, have conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, kidney disease, or a family history of early heart disease are especially likely to develop peripheral artery disease (PAD) after the age of 50.
Although leg pain is a common symptom, PAD is a warning sign of problems elsewhere in the body because it can narrow the arteries in the legs, affecting the heart and brain. This can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
The most common symptom is cramping or tightness in the muscles, thighs, or back. This occurs when you walk. But it usually subsides within a few minutes of stopping walking and resting. This is called claudication. Some people also report numbness, weakness, cold feet, and shiny, hairless skin on their feet. Another symptom is slow healing of wounds, cuts, or blisters on the toes.
Pulse in the lower limbs
A physical exam is done to check for signs of the condition. A test called the ankle-brachial index compares the blood pressure in the ankle with the pressure in the arm. Low readings indicate PAD. Ultrasound can help determine how the blood is flowing and where the blockages are. A CT or MR angiogram is also used to plan appropriate treatment.
One advantage is that PAD can be managed and treated. Early detection makes a difference. The best course of action is to quit smoking. Keep in mind that every cigarette further narrows the arteries and accelerates the formation of plaque.
Daily foot care is a small habit that can provide big benefits for people with PAD, especially those with diabetes.
Washing and drying the feet, moisturizing the skin, keeping the nails carefully trimmed, monitoring and treating cuts, wounds, blisters or discoloration, wearing shoes and socks that fit the size of the feet, etc. are some of the daily routines we should follow in taking care of our feet. If the sores or blisters do not heal within a few days, it is essential that you visit a doctor and get proper advice.
It is a simple process to gradually increase the distance you walk during walking. Continue walking until you feel mild discomfort. Then rest for a while. Then resume walking. Do this at least three times a week for a total of 30 to 45 minutes. By doing this, within a few weeks, most people will have less pain and be able to walk further because new blood vessels are formed and the muscles become more efficient.
For artery health, eating more vegetables, fruits, seedless vegetables, grains, and nuts; reducing salt, sugar, and fried foods can help control body weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Keeping diabetes under control protects the small vessels in the legs and reduces the development of peripheral artery disease (PAD).
To reduce the risk of blood clots, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, doctors may prescribe an antiplatelet medication. Statins help lower LDL cholesterol and prevent plaque buildup. High blood pressure medications protect the heart and kidneys from the long-term effects of high blood pressure. In some cases, medications that improve walking distance may be tried. However, we must understand that none of these are substitutes for lifestyle changes. All of these are necessary for medications to work properly.
In cases where the condition is severe, where symptoms interfere with daily life despite good medical care, or where there are non-healing ulcers or severe pain, minimally invasive angioplasty may be used to restore blood flow. This involves using a small balloon to open the artery. Sometimes a stent is used to keep it open.
In cases of long or very complex blockages, bypass surgery can be performed using a vein graft to reroute blood flow around the blockage. These treatments can reduce pain and protect the limbs. But they do not guarantee a complete recovery. Therefore, it is very important to continue exercising, eat a healthy diet, and take the right medications at the right time.
Timely screening, lifestyle changes, and timely treatment can improve our health. With these, most people can regain the strength to walk longer distances, reduce complications, and reduce overall heart risks.
