Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment in Jaipur

Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment in Jaipur

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when fatty plaque accumulates in the arteries of your arms or legs, hindering the efficient transport of oxygen and essential nutrients to the surrounding tissues. Although PAD is a chronic condition, you can enhance your condition by engaging in regular exercise, reducing dietary fat intake, and quitting tobacco use.

What is peripheral artery disease?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) refers to the accumulation of plaque within the arteries of your legs. These arteries play a crucial role in transporting oxygen and nutrient-rich blood from your heart to your arms and legs. This condition is also known as peripheral vascular disease or peripheral arterial disease.

Arteries, which have a tube-like structure, possess a smooth lining that prevents blood clotting and supports the continuous flow of blood. In the case of peripheral artery disease, plaque, comprised of fat, cholesterol, and other substances, gradually develops within the walls of your arteries. Over time, this leads to a narrowing of these arteries, a condition commonly referred to as atherosclerosis.

Signs and symptoms of peripheral artery disease

The signs and symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD) encompass:

• Resting Pain: A burning or aching pain in your feet and toes, particularly at night when lying flat.
• Cool Skin: The skin on your feet feels cooler than usual.
• Skin Color Changes: Noticeable redness or alterations in skin color.
• Increased Infections: An increased tendency to develop skin and soft tissue infections, primarily in the feet or legs.
• Non-Healing Sores: Sores on the toes and feet that do not heal properly.

It’s worth noting that about half of individuals with peripheral vascular disease do not exhibit any symptoms. PAD can develop gradually over a lifetime, and its symptoms may not become apparent until later in life. In many cases, symptoms only become evident when the artery has narrowed by 60% or more.

Cause of peripheral artery disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances accumulate and form plaque within the arteries. This buildup of plaque narrows and stiffens the arteries, reducing blood flow to various parts of the body, typically affecting the extremities, such as the legs. The main causes and risk factors for the development of PAD include.

• Smoking: Tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors for PAD. Smoking damages the walls of the arteries and accelerates atherosclerosis.
• High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can damage arteries over time, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and PAD.
• High Cholesterol: Elevated levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing PAD due to the damage high blood sugar levels can cause to blood vessels.
• Age: As individuals age, the risk of developing PAD increases, as atherosclerosis tends to progress with time.
• Family History: A family history of PAD or atherosclerosis can increase one’s risk of developing the condition.
• Obesity: Excess body weight can contribute to atherosclerosis and the development of PAD.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity or exercise can increase the risk of PAD.

How is peripheral artery disease treated?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can be managed and treated through various approaches, depending on the severity of the condition and individual factors. Treatment options for PAD include:

Lifestyle Changes:

• Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking is one of the most critical steps to slow the progression of PAD.
• Healthy Diet: Adopting a diet low in saturated and trans fats, and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage risk factors like high cholesterol and blood pressure.
  Regular Exercise: Engaging in a structured exercise program can improve circulation and reduce symptoms.
• Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on the circulatory system.
• Angioplasty and Stenting: In cases where arteries are severely narrowed, a procedure called angioplasty can be performed to open the artery using a balloon-like device. Often, a stent (a small metal mesh tube) is inserted to keep the artery open.
• Bypass Surgery: For advanced cases of PAD, bypass surgery may be necessary to reroute blood flow around blocked arteries, improving circulation.
• Thrombolytic Therapy: In some situations, medication may be administered to dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow.
• Exercise Rehabilitation: Supervised exercise programs can help improve walking abilities and reduce symptoms in individuals with PAD.

Diagnosis Of Peripheral Artery Disease

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): This test involves comparing blood pressure in the legs to that in the arms.

Doppler Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging technique uses sound waves to assess blood flow.

Angiography: An X-ray procedure with a contrast agent is employed to visualize blood vessels.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): This imaging method uses magnetic resonance technology to create detailed images of blood vessels.

Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA): A specialized CT scan that provides detailed images of blood vessels.