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Peripheral Arterial Disease
About
Lower leg artery blockage, also called peripheral artery disease (PAD), occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow. This leads to symptoms such as leg pain, numbness, and wounds that heal slowly. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications like tissue damage and amputation.
Symptoms
Symptoms of lower leg artery blockage include cramping or pain in the legs during physical activity (claudication), coldness or numbness in the legs or feet, and slow-healing wounds on the feet or toes. In severe cases, individuals may experience tissue death (gangrene) or non-healing ulcers. Prompt medical evaluation is essential.
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Treatments
Treatment for lower leg artery blockage aims to improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms. This may involve lifestyle changes such as exercise and smoking cessation, medications to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and procedures like angioplasty with stent placement to open narrowed arteries. In advanced cases, bypass surgery may be necessary to reroute blood flow around blockages. Regular follow-up care is crucial for managing PAD effectively.
Studies Performed
Studies performed to diagnose lower leg artery blockage include ankle-brachial index (ABI) measurement, which compares blood pressure in the ankle to that in the arm to assess arterial blood flow. Duplex ultrasound evaluates blood flow and detects narrowing or blockages in the leg arteries. Angiography provides detailed images of the arteries, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Prevention
Preventing lower leg artery blockage involves managing risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and medication. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and a diet low in saturated fats are important. Routine medical check-ups to monitor vascular health help identify and address issues early.
