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Peripheral arterial disease

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Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a medical condition that affects the circulation of blood to the extremities. Our team of highly experienced medical professionals provide diagnosis and treatment of PAD through a variety of methods such as angioplasty, stenting, and bypass surgery. Our care is tailored to each patient's individual needs, providing comprehensive care for optimal outcomes.

Symptoms

Many people with peripheral artery disease have mild or no symptoms. Some people have leg pain when walking (claudication).

Claudication symptoms include muscle pain or cramping in the legs or arms that begins during exercise and ends with rest. The pain is most commonly felt in the calf. The pain ranges from mild to severe. Severe leg pain may make it hard to walk or do other types of physical activity.

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Other peripheral artery disease symptoms may include:

  • Coldness in the lower leg or foot, especially when compared with the other side

  • Leg numbness or weakness

  • No pulse or a weak pulse in the legs or feet

  • Painful cramping in one or both of the hips, thighs or calf muscles after certain activities, such as walking or climbing stairs

  • Shiny skin on the legs

  • Skin color changes on the legs

  • Slower growth of the toenails

  • Sores on the toes, feet or legs that won't heal

  • Pain when using the arms, such as aching and cramping when knitting, writing or doing other manual tasks

  • Erectile dysfunction

  • Hair loss or slower hair growth on the legs

 

If peripheral artery disease gets worse, pain may occur during rest or when lying down. The pain may interrupt sleep. Hanging the legs over the edge of the bed or walking may temporarily relieve the pain.

Causes

Artery Symptoms

Peripheral artery disease is often caused by a buildup of fatty, cholesterol-containing deposits (plaques) on artery walls. This process is called atherosclerosis. It reduces blood flow through the arteries.

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Atherosclerosis affects arteries throughout the body. When it occurs in the arteries supplying blood to the limbs, it causes peripheral artery disease.

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Less common causes of peripheral artery disease include:

  • Blood vessel inflammation

  • Injury to the arms or legs

  • Changes in the muscles or ligaments

  • Radiation exposure

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

Don’t live in discomfort any longer. Lake State Vein & Vascular Center offers several non-surgical treatments that only take around 20 to 30 minutes. Our board-certified doctors will assess your symptoms and work with you to find the best form of treatment for your personal situation.

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