Understanding and Managing Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
9/22/2023
Dr. Daniel Krause, Aspirus Cardiologist
Are you experiencing
leg discomfort or cramping while walking or ascending stairs? Often, when you
pause to rest, the discomfort subsides temporarily, only to return once you
resume movement.
This recurring pattern
of pain is referred to as intermittent claudication and can serve as an
indicator of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
In PAD, the blood
vessels responsible for transporting blood to your extremities become narrowed
or obstructed, caused by buildup of plaque and calcification in the arteries.
This impedes the flow of blood, primarily affecting the lower extremities.
“Certain individuals
face a higher risk of developing PAD,” says Daniel Krause, DO, Aspirus
Cardiologist. “People at risk of PAD are specifically smokers, individuals with
high cholesterol, those who are obese, over the age of 50, and those who
experience pain, numbness, or tingling during exercise or an inability to
exercise at all."
Identifying the signs
of PAD is key to early intervention. Common indicators include leg numbness or
pain during physical activity, hair loss on the legs, and a pale or cold
appearance of the lower extremities. Dr. Krause emphasizes “these symptoms
should not be dismissed as mere signs of aging, as they could indicate a more
serious underlying condition.”
PAD can be diagnosed
through various tests, such as CT scans or the ankle-brachial index (ABI),
which measures blood pressure in the arms and legs to detect significant
differences.
Early intervention is
critical to stabilize arterial plaque and prevent further narrowing of the
arteries. According to the CDC, people with PAD are at risk for
developing coronary artery disease and cerebrovascular disease, which
could lead to a heart attack or stroke.
"We have a range
of medical therapies at our disposal, but lifestyle changes are paramount,”
says Dr. Krause. ”Smoking cessation is the top priority for anyone with PAD.
Additionally, controlling blood pressure, managing weight, staying physically active,
and monitoring cholesterol levels—particularly bad cholesterol—are all integral
components of a comprehensive treatment plan. I encourage individuals to stay
as active as possible, as exercise can be one of the most effective tools in
managing peripheral artery disease."
PAD management
involves a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle modifications and medical
interventions. Engaging in open communication with your healthcare provider is
paramount to ensuring the most effective management strategy for your
condition.
Dr. Krause emphasizes
the importance of taking action stating, "we want individuals to thrive,
and in the case of these symptoms, we urge you not to delay. Reach out to your
primary care physician or cardiologist for further evaluation and guidance on
managing PAD. The path to a healthier heart begins with informed decisions and
proactive steps."
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