Peripheral artery disease, otherwise known as peripheral arterial disease, is a common condition caused by narrowing of the blood vessels outside of the heart. OPTIMAL Pain & Regenerative Medicine is available to treat the common symptoms of peripheral artery disease, including pain and cramping in the leg, in patients living in the Dallas, Arlington and Fort Worth, Texas area.
What is Peripheral Artery Disease?
Peripheral artery disease is marked by the narrowing of the peripheral arteries that lead to the legs, arms, head and stomach. Most commonly located in the legs, peripheral arterial disease causes individuals to experience a wide range of symptoms.
Peripheral artery disease symptoms include:
- Pain, heaviness or numbness in the leg muscles
- Weak or absent leg pulses
- Lower temperature in one leg
- Sores on the toes, feet or leg
- Poor nail and hair growth on the leg
Peripheral arterial disease is caused by atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque in the body’s arteries that carry blood to the head, organs and limbs. Over an extended duration, plaque hardens and narrows the arteries in certain patients. The result is a limited flow of oxygen-rich blood to the limbs and organs.
What are the Common Risks Associated with Peripheral Arterial Disease?
Certain patients are at an elevated risk of developing peripheral arterial disease. These patients include:
- Patients who smoke
- Patients with diabetes
- Patients who are obese
- Patients with high cholesterol and/or blood pressure
- Family history of heart disease, stroke or peripheral artery disease
How is Peripheral Artery Disease Treated?
If a patient experiences an onset of peripheral artery disease symptoms, it is important to schedule a consultation as quickly as possible. The blocked blood flow to the legs or other limbs can raise the risk of infection, as well as cause pain and numbness. In severe cases, gangrene (tissue death) and the need for leg amputation can occur.
Peripheral arterial disease is easily diagnosed through a physical examination and heart and imaging tests. Many patients can control this condition with a combination of medicines, dietary changes, exercise and lifestyle modifications.
If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral arterial disease, or peripheral artery disease, contact the pain physicians at OPTIMAL Pain & Regenerative Medicine, proudly serving the greater Dallas, Arlington and Fort Worth, Texas area.