What is Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)?

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, typically the legs. This condition often results from atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits in the artery walls. PAD can cause leg pain, cramping, and, in severe cases, tissue damage or amputation if left untreated.

At Champion Heart and Vascular Center, we offer advanced diagnostics and treatments for PAD, combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to help patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

Why Address PAD Promptly?

1. Prevent Complications: Early diagnosis and treatment prevent serious consequences like limb amputation or cardiovascular events (e.g., heart attack, stroke).
2. Improve Quality of Life: Timely intervention alleviates pain and restores physical activity levels.
3. Comprehensive Care: At Champion Heart and Vascular Center, we tailor treatments to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring optimal outcomes.

Symptoms of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

PAD often develops gradually and may go unnoticed until symptoms become severe. Common symptoms include:

• Leg pain or cramping during activities like walking or climbing stairs, relieved by rest (claudication).
• Numbness or weakness in the legs.
• Coldness in the lower leg or foot compared to the other side.
• Sores or wounds on the toes, feet, or legs that heal slowly or not at all.
• A change in the color of the legs or shiny skin.
• Hair loss or slow-growing toenails on the affected limb.

How is Peripheral Arterial Disease Diagnosed?

1. Comprehensive Medical History & Physical Examination:
   Our specialists review your medical history, lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, diabetes), and symptoms to assess your risk for PAD.

2. Diagnostic Tests:

   • Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): Measures blood pressure differences between the arms and legs to detect PAD.
   • Ultrasound Imaging: Provides detailed images of blood flow and artery structure.
   • Angiography: Advanced imaging using dye and X-rays to identify artery blockages.

Treatment Options for Peripheral Arterial Disease

At Champion Heart and Vascular Center, we offer a range of treatments to address PAD, including:

1. Lifestyle Modifications:

   • Smoking cessation programs.
   • Customized exercise regimens to improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.
   • Dietary counseling to manage cholesterol and blood pressure.

2. Medications:

   • Drugs to lower cholesterol (statins), manage blood pressure, and improve blood flow.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures:

   • Angioplasty and Stenting: A small balloon is inflated to open narrowed arteries, followed by stent placement to keep the artery open.
   • Atherectomy: Removal of plaque buildup using a specialized device.

4. Surgical Options:

   • Bypass Surgery: Creating a graft to reroute blood flow around a blocked artery.

Personalized PAD Care at Champion Heart and Vascular Center

At Champion Heart and Vascular Center, we deliver expert care for PAD through:

• Advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive treatments.
• A holistic approach to address underlying risk factors.
• Individualized treatment plans designed to restore mobility and prevent future complications.

Who is at Risk for PAD?

Certain factors increase the risk of developing PAD, including:

• Smoking.
• Diabetes.
• High blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• Obesity.
• Age (over 50).
• A family history of cardiovascular disease or PAD.

If you have any of these risk factors, it’s crucial to seek early evaluation and care.