How PAD Treatment Can Help Prevent Serious Complications?

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a circulatory problem in which the arteries become narrowed, thereby reducing blood flow to the limbs, especially the legs. This condition results from plaque accumulation, which restricts blood flow. PAD is a serious medical condition because it can progress silently & lead to the risk of disability, infection, and heart attacks. Smokers, diabetics, people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and people above the age of 50 are more prone to PAD.

What Happens If PAD Is Left Untreated?

If PAD is not treated, the blood flow to the legs will continue to reduce as the arteries continue to narrow. The muscles in the legs may not get enough oxygen when they are in motion, causing pain & fatigue. Eventually, walking around may become difficult. Poor blood flow may also delay wound healing, increasing the risk of infection. Eventually, mobility & independence may be affected. The problem will not be limited to the legs; it may also indicate arterial disease elsewhere in the body. If peripheral artery disease is not treated, the risk of developing complications will continue to increase.

Early Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

Peripheral Artery Disease usually starts with symptoms that can be overlooked as part of the aging process or as muscle strain. Being aware of the early signs of PAD will enable one to consult a doctor before complications arise. The following symptoms should never be ignored, particularly in people at risk.

Leg Pain While Walking (Claudication)

Claudication refers to cramping or aching pain in the calves, thighs, or hips during walking that improves with rest. It occurs because narrowed arteries cannot supply enough oxygen to working muscles. The discomfort may start gradually  & become more frequent over time. Many people reduce activity to avoid pain, unintentionally worsening circulation. Persistent claudication is a key indicator that medical assessment and possible pad medical treatment are necessary.

Numbness or Weakness

Reduced circulation may cause tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs or feet. These sensations occur when nerves & muscles are deprived of adequate oxygen. One leg may feel weaker than the other, & balance can sometimes be affected. Such symptoms should not be dismissed as minor nerve issues. They may signal advancing arterial blockage that requires proper evaluation and consideration of suitable pad treatment options.

Slow-Healing Wounds

Cuts, blisters, or sores on the feet that heal slowly can indicate compromised blood supply. When oxygen delivery is limited, the body struggles to repair damaged tissue. Even small wounds may linger for weeks, increasing the risk of infection. In people with diabetes, this problem becomes more serious. Slow-healing ulcers are a warning sign that treatment for peripheral artery disease may be urgently needed.

Skin Discoloration or Temperature Changes

Changes in skin color, such as pale, bluish, or shiny skin, may reflect poor circulation. The affected leg or foot might also feel cooler than the surrounding areas. Hair growth can diminish,  & toenails may thicken. These physical changes occur gradually as blood flow declines. When noticed early, medical evaluation and appropriate treatment strategies can prevent further tissue damage.

How PAD Treatment Improves Blood Circulation?

The best way to treat the pad is to enhance blood circulation & avoid the progression of artery obstruction. The patient may be required to take certain medications to decrease blood clotting, lower cholesterol levels,  & increase walking ability. In some cases, the patient may need a minimally invasive procedure to widen the obstructed arteries.

Preventing Critical Limb Ischemia Through Timely Treatment

Critical limb ischemia is a severe complication of PAD, marked by the presence of severe pain at rest, non-healing wounds, or tissue loss. At this stage, blood flow is so compromised that the limb’s viability may be threatened. Early management of PAD can prevent the progression of the disease to this critical stage. Regular vascular monitoring enables the doctor to detect changes in circulation & adjust treatment as needed. With proper medical treatment of the PAD, the risk of developing critical limb ischemia can be significantly lowered. If PAD is left untreated, it can cause chronic ulcers, infections, and gangrene as a result of the lack of oxygen.

Lowering the Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke

PAD is more than a leg disease; it is a symptom of atherosclerosis in the arteries of the body. Patients with PAD have a higher risk of having a heart attack  & a stroke. A comprehensive treatment for PAD must address this risk. Blood thinners, cholesterol,  & blood pressure are all critical components of treatment. By taking a holistic approach to arterial health, PAD treatment strategies reduce the workload on the heart and brain. Leg health helps maintain the cardiovascular system’s survival.

Advanced Treatment Options for Severe PAD

If symptoms persist even after conservative treatment, more invasive procedures may be considered. Such procedures are intended to improve blood flow more directly & alleviate substantial blockages.

Angioplasty

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small balloon is inserted into the narrowed artery  & inflated to widen the passage. This helps improve blood flow immediately. The procedure is typically performed through a small catheter & requires minimal recovery time. For many patients, angioplasty serves as an effective treatment for peripheral artery disease when medication alone is insufficient.

Stenting

Stenting is often performed alongside angioplasty. After the artery is widened, a small mesh tube called a stent is placed to keep it open. This support structure helps prevent the vessel from narrowing again. Stents improve long-term blood flow  & reduce recurrent symptoms. As part of comprehensive pad treatment options, stenting provides durable relief for selected patients.

Atherectomy

Atherectomy involves removing plaque buildup directly from the artery using specialized instruments. By clearing the blockage rather than compressing it, blood flow can be restored more naturally. This procedure may be chosen when plaque is heavily calcified. Atherectomy can improve walking capacity and decrease discomfort in carefully evaluated individuals.

Bypass Surgery

Bypass PAD surgery creates a new blood-flow pathway around a blocked artery using a graft. It is generally reserved for severe or extensive disease. Although more invasive than other procedures, it can significantly improve circulation  & relieve persistent symptoms. As an advanced treatment for PAD, bypass surgery may help prevent limb-threatening complications.

Lifestyle Changes That Support PAD Treatment

The best way for medical care to work is in conjunction with healthy lifestyle changes. Long-term success is achieved by controlling risk factors that narrow the arteries. These changes improve the outcome of pad medical treatment  & prevent recurrence.

Smoking Cessation

Smoking can damage blood vessels and hasten the buildup of plaque. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways a patient can improve circulation. Vascular function will begin to return to normal within months of quitting smoking. In addition to proper treatment for PAD, quitting smoking can greatly reduce the risks of complications.

Diabetes Control

High blood sugar can damage arteries and impair wound healing. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent the progression of vascular damage. Monitoring blood sugar, taking medications as directed, and keeping regular appointments can help manage peripheral artery disease.

Blood Pressure Management

High blood pressure further increases the workload on the arterial walls, causing them to narrow even further. Controlling blood pressure with medication, lowering sodium intake,  & managing stress help effectively manage PAD. Controlling blood pressure improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of heart-related problems associated with PAD.

Healthy Diet and Physical Activity

A healthy diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is also beneficial for vascular health. Exercise and physical activity will increase endurance and help improve blood flow. Even a moderate walking routine can help improve symptoms when combined with a pain management treatment option.

When to See a Vascular Specialist in Encino, Los Angeles?

Leg pain during exercise, non-healing wounds, or changes in skin color should be evaluated by a physician. People with diabetes, a history of smoking, or pre-existing heart disease should be especially cautious. Early diagnosis enables the physician to initiate proper treatment for peripheral artery disease before complications arise. Postponing treatment may leave the patient with few alternatives. A vascular specialist can assess the patient’s circulation status using non-invasive tests and suggest appropriate treatment plans.

Book an Appointment For The Best Pad Treatment

Peripheral Artery Disease is a progressive disease, but life-threatening complications can be prevented with timely & consistent care. From medications and exercise to sophisticated surgical procedures, contemporary treatments are engineered to improve circulation & safeguard overall health.

Contact Encino Vascular Institute today to discuss personalized peripheral artery disease treatment plans and begin the journey to healthier circulation and a brighter future.

Frequently Asked Questions