Treatment Options For Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral arterial disease develops when plaque, which consists of substances such as cholesterol, fat, and calcium, builds up inside artery walls and causes narrowing. This leads to problems with blood circulation because of reduced blood flow to the brain, limbs, stomach, and kidneys. Peripheral arterial disease can also be caused by blood clots in the arteries, limb injuries, or abnormal structure of muscles or ligaments. Symptoms include weakness, numbness, and pain in the legs. Peripheral arterial disease patients also suffer from leg pain when walking (claudication) and open sores that don’t heal properly. Risk factors for developing this condition include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, older age, and obesity. Treatment is geared towards symptom management and reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Learn more about treating peripheral arterial disease now.