Leg pain comes in different forms. Nonetheless, when you feel pain during regular walks that seems to vanish when seated, the probability is high that you have artery-related issues. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common circulatory health problem that usually affects your lower legs due to the narrowing and clogging of the arteries in your feet and legs. At Heart Vascular & Leg Center, Vinod Kumar MD, FACC, is a board-certified cardiologist in Bakersfield, CA who specializes in diagnosing and treating PAD. 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 primarily caused by atherosclerosis, which occurs when fatty deposits build-up on the inside of your arteries and reduce blood flow. Cholesterol is the main culprit that causes PAD, as this fatty substance will clog your arteries or blood vessels and 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.
What Are Common Peripheral Arterial Disease Symptoms?
When the cholesterol in your legs is less substantial, you will likely not notice any symptoms. With the passage of time, however, you may begin experiencing various signs, including leg pain, buttock pain, calf pain, foot pain, leg cramps, blocked arteries, and other cramps you feel off-and-on. As the condition advances, you may also experience open wounds or sores that heal slowly. Without appropriate treatment, PAD can lead to amputation or gangrene.
Who Is More Predisposed To Peripheral Arterial Disease?
Many conditions cause PAD. While old age is one of the more significant risk factors, other primary risk factors for PAD include; obesity, stroke or heart issues, coronary stents, diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, chronic kidney issues, and having a family member with atherosclerosis. While you are at considerable risk of other complications if you have more than four symptoms of PAD, Dr. Kumar and associates will help you manage PAD with innovative treatments, such as duplex ultrasounds, that detect the disease early.
How Is PAD Diagnosed?
For a precise diagnosis, the doctor uses various diagnostic tools, including a comprehensive exam, arterial ultrasound, ankle-brachial index, angiogram, or magnetic resonance. The ankle-brachial index involves placing a blood pressure cuff on your legs and arms to compare their blood pressure. If the ankle-brachial index reveals an abnormal result, the doctor might undertake further screenings, such as ultrasound and angioplasty, to find the arterial issues or blockages.
What Are The Available PAD Treatment Options?
Based on the severity of your condition, treatment goals, and health history, Dr. Kumar and the team will provide various minimally-invasive treatments, including; peripheral stenting, angioplasty, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, and atherectomy. The team also offers the CO2 angiography for patients with kidney illness who are unable to receive the dye used in traditional angioplasty. The doctor also recommends prescription medications and healthy lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and eating a balanced diet.
In conclusion, relieve the pain on your feet by visiting Heart Vascular & Leg Center in and around Bakersfield, California. You will get the proper care so you may return to your comfortable days. For professional diagnosis and treatment for peripheral artery disease, be sure to call or book an appointment online today.
