What Happens if PAD Goes Untreated?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common circulatory problem caused by atherosclerosis, the narrowing of peripheral arteries due to plaque buildup. PAD affects millions of people worldwide and can have serious consequences if left untreated. In this blog post, we'll discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, complications, and treatment options for PAD, as well as the importance of consulting a vascular specialist.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of PAD
PAD often begins with mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, making it difficult to detect in the early stages [1]. Common symptoms include:
Pain or cramping in the legs when walking, known as claudication
Weakness, numbness, or coldness in the lower extremities
Slow healing wounds on the legs or feet
Shiny skin or hair loss on the legs
To diagnose PAD, a healthcare provider may perform a physical examination, ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, ultrasound, angiography, or other imaging tests [2].
Complications of Untreated PAD
If left untreated, PAD can lead to several complications, including:
Progression of PAD: Symptoms can become more severe and debilitating, limiting mobility and daily activities.
Claudication: Pain and cramping in the legs may worsen, making it difficult to walk or perform daily tasks [3].
Critical limb ischemia (CLI): Severe cases of PAD can cause CLI, characterized by chronic pain at rest, non-healing ulcers, and gangrene [1].
Risk of amputation: Severe PAD can result in tissue death, increasing the risk of amputation [3].
Increased cardiovascular disease risk: PAD is associated with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases [4].
PAD Treatment and Prevention
Effective treatment of PAD focuses on managing symptoms, slowing the progression of the disease, and reducing the risk of complications. Treatment options include:
Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthier lifestyle can help manage PAD symptoms and prevent further complications. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, smoking cessation, and weight management [1].
Medications: Medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar may be prescribed to help manage PAD and reduce the risk of complications [3].
Endovascular intervention: In more severe cases, minimally invasive endovascular procedures such as angioplasty and stenting can be used to restore blood flow [4].
Early treatment is crucial for managing PAD and preventing complications.
Importance of Consulting a Vascular Specialist
If you suspect you have PAD or are experiencing symptoms, it's essential to consult a vascular specialist. They can provide a thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan to help manage PAD and prevent complications.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Untreated PAD can lead to serious complications that impact your quality of life and overall health. Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing PAD and reducing the risk of complications. If you're experiencing PAD symptoms or have risk factors for the condition, take action by scheduling a consultation at Indiana Vascular. Our dedicated team of vascular specialists is committed to providing personalized care, guiding you through the diagnostic process and exploring the most effective treatment options for your individual needs. At Indiana Vascular, we offer the latest in cutting-edge treatments and non-invasive options, helping you regain your mobility, improve your quality of life, and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications. Don't wait - let us be your partner on the path towards better vascular health. Act now and take the first step towards a healthier, more active life.
Sourecs
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Peripheral artery disease (PAD). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17357-peripheral-artery-disease-pad
Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Peripheral vascular disease. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/peripheral-vascular-disease
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Peripheral artery disease (PAD). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-artery-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350557
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (n.d.). Peripheral artery disease. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/peripheral-artery-disease
