Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a common condition where the arteries that carry blood to your limbs, most commonly the legs and feet, become narrowed or blocked. This is usually caused by atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty plaque in the artery walls, which reduces blood flow.
Many people with PAD may not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include intermittent leg pain (claudication) due to an inadequate flow of blood to the leg. Pain could be limited to the calf area of the leg. The location of the pain depends on where the blockage is.
Other symptoms of PAD can include:
- Numbness or weakness in the legs or feet
- Coldness in the lower leg or foot, especially compared to the other side
- Changes in the skin color of the legs or feet (paleness, blueness)
- Shiny or smooth skin on the legs
- Hair loss or slower hair growth on the legs and feet
- Slow-growing or brittle toenails
- Sores or ulcers on the toes, feet, or legs that don’t heal
- Weak or absent pulse in the feet or legs
- Erectile dysfunction in men
Treatment of these conditions may involve insertion of stents or removal of blockages in the arterial system of the heart. Treatment for peripheral artery disease may include dietary changes, medications, stents, angioplasty, bypass surgery, or long-term treatment with anticoagulant medications.
If you’re suffering from PAD, get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment for an exam and find out what your treatment options are.
Stockton Cardiology provides cardiology services for folks throughout Stockton, Tracy, Manteca, and San Andreas.