What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a circulatory condition that restricts blood flow to the limbs due to narrowed arteries. It’s most commonly caused by atherosclerosis—a buildup of fatty deposits in the arterial walls. PAD can affect arteries in the legs, head or abdomen, often leading to discomfort, fatigue and mobility issues. Understanding what is peripheral artery disease is vital for early detection and proper care.
More than 3 million Americans are living with PAD, but many remain undiagnosed. Because symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for general aging, it’s essential to know what to look for and when to seek medical advice.
Recognizing the Symptoms of PAD
One of the most common warning signs of PAD is claudication—pain or cramping in the legs, hips or thighs during activity such as walking or climbing stairs. This pain usually goes away with rest but returns with movement. Other signs may include:
- Leg numbness or weakness
- Coldness in the lower leg or foot
- Slow-healing sores on the feet or toes
- Shiny skin or hair loss on the legs
If left untreated, PAD can lead to serious complications like infections, non-healing wounds, gangrene or even limb amputation. It also increases your risk of heart attack or stroke due to its connection with other cardiovascular conditions.
Who’s at Risk?
Certain risk factors can make you more likely to develop PAD. These include:
- Age (especially over 50)
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
Managing these factors plays a major role in slowing the disease’s progression and improving overall heart health.
Peripheral Artery Disease Testing in Fountainville
If you’re showing signs of PAD or have risk factors, it’s important to get evaluated. At AMS Cardiology in Fountainville, we offer comprehensive peripheral artery disease testing tailored to your needs. Common diagnostics include:
- Ankle-brachial index (ABI): Compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm to assess blood flow
- Doppler ultrasound: Uses sound waves to visualize blood flow in the arteries
- Blood tests: Check for cholesterol levels and markers of inflammation
- Angiography: Provides a detailed view of the arteries using contrast dye and imaging
These tests help determine the severity of the disease and guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Options and Long-Term Care
Treatment often begins with lifestyle changes. Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a heart-healthy diet and controlling blood sugar are essential steps. Medications may be prescribed to lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure or improve blood flow.
In more severe cases, minimally invasive procedures such as angioplasty or stenting can be used to open narrowed arteries. These treatments are effective and often allow patients to return to normal activities with minimal downtime.
Compassionate, Expert Care at AMS Cardiology
AMS Cardiology has been a trusted name in cardiovascular care in the Greater Philadelphia Area since the 1970s. At our Fountainville location, patients have access to advanced PAD diagnostics and treatment from a team known for medical excellence and patient-focused care.
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of PAD, don’t delay. Contact AMS Cardiology in Fountainville today to schedule your consultation and begin the path to better vascular health.