What is peripheral artery disease?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that occurs when blood vessels are blocked due to the buildup of fatty plaque on their walls (atherosclerosis). When the vessels narrow, the proper distribution of blood to the rest of the body, and especially to the limbs, is inhibited. There is also a risk of clots forming, which can lead to the death of muscle tissues.

Currently, this disease causes a large number of strokes and heart attacks globally.

When blood circulation to the limbs, especially the lower ones—though it can also affect the arms—is compromised, the body often shows various signs that can appear gradually or suddenly.

These signs are the body’s way of alerting you to a possible blockage or narrowing in the arteries that supply the muscles and tissues of your limbs.

Recognizing these signs early is crucial to prevent major complications, as they are often mistaken for common aches or underestimated in their initial stages.

The most frequent symptoms of peripheral artery disease include:

• Changes in the color of the limbs.
• Erectile dysfunction in men.
• Weak arms and legs.
• Poor wound healing.
• Cold hands and feet.
• Thickened and opaque toenails.
• Fragile skin and hair loss or slow hair growth on the body.

The development of peripheral artery disease is not random; it is usually linked to a series of factors that affect vascular health over time. These factors directly influence the deterioration of the arteries, promoting the accumulation of plaque that hinders blood flow to the limbs.

The main causes for developing this condition include:

• Disorders such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
• Diseases like Raynaud’s, chronic venous insufficiency, and deep vein thrombosis.
• Leading a sedentary lifestyle.
• A diet high in fats and high cholesterol.
• Overweight and obesity.
• Advanced age.
• Smoking and excessive drinking.

In addition to a physical exam and a review of the patient’s medical history, the diagnosis may require additional studies.

Some of the main tests are:

• Angiogram to visualize blockages in the blood vessels.
• Lipid profile to measure cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood.
• Ultrasound to check blood flow.
• Angiography and stress test to observe heart function.

The goal of PAD treatment is to control symptoms, stop its progression, and reduce the chances of a heart attack or a cerebrovascular event.

Your ABC doctor will determine the specific treatment based on:

• Your age, general health, and medical history.
• The current stage of the disease and its outlook.
• Tolerance to certain medications, procedures, or therapies.

Treatment may include significant lifestyle changes, incorporating medications to eliminate plaque in blood vessels and improve circulation, or interventions such as vascular surgery or angioplasty to improve blood flow.

Beyond treatment, it’s very important to prevent the development of PAD as much as possible. This requires taking timely action on certain habits that promote the health of the circulatory system.

Most factors that contribute to the development of this condition can be modified or controlled with specific lifestyle changes and proper medical follow-up. These measures include:

• Quitting smoking.
• Monitoring your glucose levels.
• Exercising regularly.
• Watching your blood pressure.
• Lowering your cholesterol.
• Avoiding foods with saturated fats.
• Not drinking alcohol.

At the Vascular, Arterial, and Venous Disease area of Centro Médico ABC, we can provide you with specialized care for peripheral artery disease. Contact us!