Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that often flies under the radar, but it shouldn’t. Affecting millions of people worldwide, PAD occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly the legs. While the symptoms may start small, like leg pain when walking or a slow-healing wound, PAD can be a sign of more widespread cardiovascular problems. PAD itself may not be immediately life-threatening, but it can lead to stroke, heart attack, or even amputation if left untreated. Yes, PAD is serious.
What are the Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?
Common symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD) often start gradually and may be easy to overlook. One of the most distinct signs is leg pain or cramping while walking or climbing stairs, which typically goes away with rest, often referred to as “claudication.” Other symptoms may include numbness or weakness in the legs, one leg or foot being colder than the other, slow-healing sores on the feet or toes, increased bruising, and a weak or absent pulse in the legs. In more advanced cases, individuals may experience pain even while resting or develop an increased risk of infection due to poor circulation. Recognizing these warning signs early can lead to early treatment and help prevent serious complications.
Treating PAD with Minimally Invasive Techniques
Treatment for peripheral artery disease (PAD) focuses on improving blood flow, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications. Previously, vascular surgery was required to treat PAD, but today, effective treatment options are available without the need for major surgery.
Outpatient procedures performed by interventional radiologists have become a leading choice for treating PAD, offering minimally invasive techniques such as atherectomy, which removes plaque buildup from the artery walls to restore healthy circulation, and angioplasty, which uses a small balloon to help widen narrowed vessels. These image-guided treatments usually involve just a small incision, provide faster recovery times, and are often completed on an outpatient basis.
Curbing PAD with Lifestyle Changes
Alongside these procedures, lifestyle changes also play a critical role in managing PAD. Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps. Tobacco use directly damages blood vessels and worsens symptoms. Regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, and managing conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure are also essential components of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Non-surgical Treatment with NG Vascular & Vein Center
Atherectomy and angioplasty are available at NG Vascular and Vein Center. If you’re ready to explore non-invasive treatment options for PAD, give us a call at our Munster, Indiana, and Merrillville, Indiana, locations at 219-208-6218 or our Palos Heights, Illinois, and Homewood, Illinois locations at 708-888-1167 to schedule a consultation.
