Learn more about arterial disease, its symptoms and how to treat it.
Arteries are vessels that carry blood away from the heart to all other areas of the body. Arterial disease occurs when blood flow is either blocked or slowed through the arteries. This condition is most often referred to as peripheral artery disease (PAD). Here’s what you should know about PAD, as well as when you might want to turn to our Fort Worth, TX, vascular surgeon Dr. Ramesh Paladugu and board-certified anesthesiologist Dr. Mythili Paladugu for an evaluation.
What causes peripheral artery disease?
This condition occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, limiting or blocking blood flow from the heart to organs and other areas of the body. PAD most commonly impacts the arteries of the legs, but can also affect the arms, stomach and head. If you develop plaque buildup in the arteries of the heart this can also increase your risk for heart attack and stroke. Risk factors that can increase your chances for PAD include,
- Smoking
- Older age
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
What are the signs and symptoms of peripheral artery disease?
The symptoms you experience will depend on which arteries are affected. For example, a blockage in the arteries of the legs can lead to heaviness, cramping pain and numbness. You may notice that symptoms are exacerbated with certain activities but get better with rest. As PAD advances you may also notice,
- Changes in the color of your skin
- Shiny skin on the legs
- A burning pain while at rest
- Sores on your legs or feet that don’t go away
- Coldness in the lower extremities (only present in the affected leg)
If you notice symptoms of artery disease it’s important that you turn to our Fort Worth, TX, vascular surgeon for an evaluation. We have the proper diagnostic tests to check the health and function of the arteries to determine if you have PAD.
How is PAD treated?
The goal of treatment is to help you better control your pain while also reducing your risk for serious health complications such as stroke or heart attack. Your treatment plan will often include various lifestyle changes including,
- A healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Stress management
- Manage other chronic health problems (e.g. hypertension)
Medication may also be prescribed to treat other chronic conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure, which in turn can improve your PAD and reduce your risk for serious health complications.
When is surgery necessary?
If you are dealing with advanced peripheral artery disease that’s impacting your ability to move around and leading to serious pain, then our Fort Worth, TX, vascular surgeon may recommend a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can help to open up the blocked arteries to improve blood flow.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of peripheral artery disease it’s always best to play it safe and schedule an evaluation with our Fort Worth, TX, vascular surgeon. Call Texas Vascular and Vein Center today at (817) 332-8346.