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PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) causes poor circulation in the legs or arms due to the build-up of plaque in the arteries. This typically occurs in patients whose diet consists of fatty foods or foods high in cholesterol, as well as patients who smoke. As plaque builds up, the arteries become narrower, limiting the supply of oxygen and nutrients that travel to the lower and upper extremities.

You can prevent peripheral arterial disease by following a healthy, low cholesterol diet with reduced fat content. In addition, exercise can also encourage healthy circulation, and smoking cessation is also helpful in preventing PAD.

 
 

SYMPTOMS

Early stages of peripheral arterial disease typically present the following symptoms:

  • Pain in the legs
  • Tiredness while walking
  • Intermittent leg cramping
  • Tiredness and heaviness in the legs

Advanced symptoms include:

  • Burning pain in the legs and toes when stationary
  • Skin colour changes in the affected area
  • Recurrent infections
  • Foot sores that cannot heal

TREATMENT

An early diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease coupled with healthy lifestyle choices can reverse the condition and improve your quality of life. However, in the advanced stages of the disease, surgical intervention is necessary

Surgical procedures to treat peripheral arterial disease include:

  • Balloon angioplasty
    A surgical balloon is passed through a catheter into the arterial space. As the balloon expands, it pushes the plaque against the walls and dilates the area.
  • Stenting
    Small, metal coils are inserted through an opening and passed inside the artery using a catheter. The stents help keep the blood vessel walls open so blood can pass through easily.
  • Atherectomy
    The surgical removal of plaque from the blood vessel using a catheter with a blade attached at the end.

Failing to treat peripheral arterial disease can cause the condition to advance, leading to health complications that eventually progress to heart attack or stroke.

Access creation for dialysis

Peripheral arterial disease

Aneurysms

Venous disorders. mainly varicose veins and DVTs

Strokes

 

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FAQ

1How is peripheral arterial disease diagnosed?

Dr Manyangadze screens for peripheral arterial disease by conducting the following tests:

  • Ankle/brachial index (ABI) – to measure blood pressure in your legs and arms
  • Pulse volume recording - to measure blood volume in your legs.
  • Vascular ultrasound – to monitor blood circulation
2CAN THE DISEASE BE CURED?
Through healthy lifestyle changes, you can prevent peripheral arterial disease from progressing further. For example, you should avoid smoking, alcohol consumption and fatty foods while also maintaining a consistent exercise routine.
3How long is recovery after surgery?
It can take eight weeks to recover from vascular surgery. Dr Manyangadze will guide you through the process based on your particular needs.