Preventing Complications of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Tips for Long-Term Management

PAD or Peripheral artery disease (also known as peripheral arterial disease) is an accumulation of fats and cholesterol (atherosclerosis) in the arteries. This accumulation makes it difficult for the blood to carry oxygen and other nutrients to different parts of the body as it narrows down the arteries. 

PAD is a long-term disease, and it is a major risk for heart attack and stroke. However, one can prevent it by taking certain measures. 

What are the Causes of Peripheral Artery Disease?

PAD is usually caused by the accumulation of fats in the arteries. Plaque build up or blood clots act like roadblocks, narrowing or completely stopping the flow of blood. This starves the tissues for essential nutrients and oxygen, leading to damage and eventually, in severe cases, tissue death (gangrene). This often happens first in your toes and feet, farthest from the heart.

There are other less common causes that are as follows:

• Injury to the arms or legs 
• Blood vessel inflammation 
• Radiation exposure 
• Muscle and ligament changes 
• Tobacco consumption 

What are the Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease?

Most people with PAD do not usually experience any symptoms or major notice in their legs. However, people who do experience pain or discomfort may go through the following symptoms: 

• Weakness or numbness in the legs 
• One foot may feel colder than the other 
• Sores or ulcers on the legs and feet 
• Pain in thighs or calf muscles causing them difficulty in walking 

What are the risk factors for Peripheral Artery Disease?

The risk factors of PAD are serious and regardless of gender, the person will go through the following risks: 

1. Heart attack or stroke 
2. Limb amputation 
3. Bypass surgery might have poor results 

Therefore, major risk factors involve: 

1. High cholesterol 
2. High blood pressure 
3. Obesity 
4. Aging 
5. Family history of PAD 
6. Diabetes 

How to Diagnose Peripheral Artery Disease?

There are multiple ways to diagnose PAD. They may begin by examining both of the legs. 

There are other tests involved during the process. They may be as follows: 

1. Blood test: It is used to check the levels of cholesterol 
2. Ankle-Brachial Index: This test compares the blood pressure in the ankle to the arm. This is the most common test used for PAD. 
3. Ultrasound: This also helps in measuring the level of the blood flow in the artery. 
4. CT Scan: This helps in testing the arteries in the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. 
5. Angiography: a contrast agent injected into the arteries helps to show the blood vessels during X-rays. 

What is the Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment?

Once diagnosed, it is possible to treat Peripheral Artery Disease by the following ways: 

1. Medications: Most of these medicines treat the risk factors and do not directly affect PAD. For instance, medicines may manage the levels of cholesterol or blood pressure.  
2. Exercise programs: Most of these exercise programs are supervised. These exercises help in reducing the effects of the symptoms and help in maintaining the daily routine. It may help in reducing pain in the leg which will allow you to walk comfortably.  Most of these exercises are at least 30 minutes. You should consult your doctor before performing any exercise. 
3. Minimal surgical treatments: In more severe cases, people need to improve their blood flow to relieve pain at rest or to heal a wound. More advanced PAD that causes severe pain and limited mobility may require endovascular (minimally invasive) or surgical treatment.  

How to Prevent Peripheral Artery Disease?

One can prevent Peripheral Artery Disease by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Following are some tips for the same: 

• Quit smoking: This is the most common cause of PAD. It’ll slow down the progression of the disease. 
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30-40 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise daily. Walking is also a great option to maintain the heart rate and blood flow. 
• Manage blood pressure and cholesterol: High BP and cholesterol can contribute to worsening PAD. You may consult your doctor for the same. 
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of PAD. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain your weight. 
• Maintain a healthy diet: Choose a diet that includes more fruits and vegetables and less fatty food. Avoid saturated and trans fats with high sodium. 
• Manage diabetes: Again, it will contribute to worsening PAD. Regularly check up on your sugar levels to decrease the risk. 
• Inspect your feet daily: Look for sores, blisters, and changes in skin color to keep a check on foot health. 
• Regular check-ups: Visit your doctor in regular intervals for further guidance and early detection. 

Conclusion

Like any other disease, PAD is treatable. However, prevention is always better than cure. By following simple healthy lifestyle routines and by keeping your circulatory system running smoothly, one can prevent the risk of Peripheral Artery Disease. 

Regular checkups with your doctor and early intervention are crucial for managing existing PAD and preventing complications. Attend appointments and follow the medicines prescribed by your doctor on time to avoid any risk factors mentioned above. 

Don't wait until the warning signs appear, take charge of your health today and walk confidently towards a healthier future!