Introduction to Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), also known as Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD), is a common circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs. When you develop PAD, your extremities — usually your legs — don't receive enough blood flow to keep up with demand. This condition often develops slowly and without noticeable symptoms or can present with signs that might be mistaken for other health issues.
Common Symptoms of PAD
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it might be time to consult with a specialist:
Leg pain: Often described as a cramping sensation in the calves, thighs, or hips during activities like walking or climbing stairs.
Muscle cramps in calves, thighs, or hips during physical activities.
Slow-healing wounds on the toes or feet.
Lower temperature in one or both legs
Complications of Untreated PAD
Ignoring the signs of PAD can lead to critical limb ischemia, which may result in amputation. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent these severe outcomes. Regular check-ups can help catch PAD before it progresses to a critical state.
Causes and Risk Factors
PAD is primarily caused by the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis). Risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing PAD include:
Smoking
Existing cardiovascular conditions or diabetes
High blood pressure or high cholesterol
Overweight or obesity
Physical inactivity
Diagnostic and Treatment Services
Through our network of partnered providers, Healthlink ensures the coordination of state-of-the-art diagnostic processes and the latest treatment technologies. Treatment options are designed to be minimally invasive to ensure quick recovery and minimal discomfort:
Balloon Angioplasty: A catheter with a balloon at its tip is used to open up narrowed or blocked arteries.
Atherectomy: A minimally invasive method to remove plaque from the arteries.
Stenting: Insertion of a stent to keep an artery open is used when necessary to ensure long-term results.
Statistical Insights on PAD
Peripheral Arterial Disease affects millions worldwide and is a significant cause of disability:
Annual prevalence: Millions of new cases are diagnosed each year.
Risk of amputation: Individuals with untreated PAD have a significantly higher risk of requiring an amputation.
Success rates: Early intervention and treatment can lead to high success rates and improved quality of life.
Call to Action
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Contact Healthlink today to learn more about our PAD services or to schedule a consultation. For your convenience, we offer an easy online booking option. Ensure your limbs are as healthy as they should be by reaching out to our partnered specialists.
For appointments, please visit our website or call/text us directly at (832) 571-1100. Let Healthlink be your partner in maintaining your vascular health.