Leg pains appear in many forms; however, when you feel pain during your regular walks that disappear when seated, the chances are high that you have artery issues. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common vascular health problem that usually affects your lower legs. Gary P. Jones, MD, FACS at Louisiana Cardiovascular and Thoracic Institute, provides Alexandria peripheral arterial disease diagnosis and treatment. If you are concerned about peripheral artery disease, call or schedule an appointment online for expert diagnosis and treatments.
What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?
This is a circulatory health issue in which your arteries narrow, lessening the blood flow to your extremities. The condition is mostly because of atherosclerosis, which happens when fatty deposits build up on the inside of your arteries, reducing the blood's space to flow. Cholesterol is the main culprit that causes PAD. The fatty substance will build up in your arteries or blood vessels to make them less efficient. Consequently, a build-up of cholesterol on the walls of your arteries leads to a hardened substance that narrows the passage of blood. Your feet or legs show the first symptoms of PAD.
What Are The Symptoms Of Peripheral Arterial Disease?
Initially, when the cholesterol in your legs is less significant, you will not notice any symptoms. However, with time, you will realize the following symptoms:
● Hair loss in the legs
● Weakness in both or one leg
● Red skin or sometimes discolored skin
● Tingling sensation on the legs
● Muscle cramps at any time of the day or night
● Erectile dysfunction in men
● Cold feet or weaknesses in your feet
● Cramping or pain in your calves after exercise or walking
Leg pains often make the first signals to show that you have PAD. Your muscles in the leg become painful when they fail to receive adequate oxygen. PAD is a progressive condition, so as it advances you will start noticing pain when resting as well.
Who Is At Risk Of Peripheral Arterial Disease?
PAD has many causal effects. However, old age is one of the most significant risk factors. You can get PAD also with the primary risk factors, including coronary stents, diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, stroke or heart issues, chronic kidney issues, and having a family member with atherosclerosis. Dr. Jones will help you cope with PAD by using state of the art treatments such as duplex ultrasounds that detect the disease early. You are at greater risk of other complications if you have more than four symptoms of the disease.
What Should You Expect During PAD Treatment?
For an accurate diagnosis, the doctor uses various diagnostic tools, including a comprehensive exam, ankle-brachial index, angiogram, arterial ultrasound computerized tomography, or magnetic resonance. Based on the severity of your condition, the team at Louisiana Cardiovascular and Thoracic Institute, under the leadership of Dr. Jones, provides a variety of treatments, including lifestyle modifications, medications, stenting, angioplasty, and atherectomy.
Get Treated For PAD In Louisiana
To sum up, relieve the pain on your feet by visiting Louisiana Cardiovascular and Thoracic Institute. You will get proper care to return you to your comfortable days. For professional diagnosis and treatment for peripheral artery disease, call or book an appointment online today.
