Peripheral Arterial Disease

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Video: Peripheral Arterial Disease

Video: Peripheral Arterial Disease
Video: Peripheral artery disease: Pathophysiology, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatments, Animation 2024, March
Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral Arterial Disease
Anonim

Peripheral arterial disease (PAS) includes all those diseases that occur as a result of blockage of the arteries that carry blood to the limbs, organs and head.

Obstruction can be caused by diseases such as atherosclerosis, the presence of a foreign object, a blood clot, embolism, narrowing of the arterial walls. Peripheral arterial disease may also be caused by ischemia, which is a lack of blood and a lack of nutrients and oxygen to the affected limbs or organs.

Diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure and very high cholesterol levels are the main causes of peripheral arterial disease.

The risk of occurrence of peripheral arterial disease increases in people over the age of 50, in obesity or past illnesses such as heart attack or stroke. Men suffer from peripheral arterial disease more often than women. The incidence of peripheral arterial disease is closely related to the presence of risk factors for atherosclerosis.

The manifestations of peripheral arterial disease are the main cause of chronic and acute diseases, which are associated with reduced body function and quality of life, can lead to limb amputation and significantly increase the risk of death. This is largely due to the sedentary lifestyle of sick people caused by pain and discomfort due to the disease.

Causes of peripheral arterial disease

In the above lines, some of the main risk factors that could provoke peripheral arterial disease were mentioned. First of all, it's smoking. It increases the risk of this disease by as much as two to six times. Accordingly, smoking cessation leads to a rapid reduction in risk and for 1 year it equals the risk in non-smokers.

Smoking
Smoking

The other serious risk factor is diabetes. It also significantly increases the risk of this disease and, on the other hand, peripheral arterial disease is much more aggressive in diabetics. Diabetics also require more frequent amputations. High cholesterol and hypertension are other very serious factors that should not be underestimated.

Symptoms of peripheral arterial disease

Many people who suffer from peripheral arterial disease do not suffer from any symptoms, especially in the beginning. When symptoms appear, they are expressed in tingling, heaviness and pain in the muscles of the legs, which intensify when climbing stairs or walking.

However, these symptoms subside at rest. Ulcers or sores appear that heal too slowly. The temperature in the limbs also decreases and they are often cold. The skin may turn bluish or pale. People who suffer from diabetes may also complain of erectile dysfunction.

Diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease

The diagnosis peripheral arterial disease is performed on the basis of a physical examination, appointment of imaging studies and examination of heart health. Early diagnosis is an important factor in further treatment and improvement in quality of life.

The diagnosis is made by a vascular specialist. In the first place, easily accessible arteries are examined by pressure. Doppler diagnostics are then performed, during which blood flow and systolic peripheral pressure are assessed.

Treatment of peripheral arterial disease

The doctor prescribes medication that is designed to reduce the risk of clots forming. Statins are also prescribed to reduce high cholesterol levels. Taking such pills is mandatory because they slow down the development of the disease. The patient is at risk of cardiovascular disease, which should also be taken with caution.

In some of the more severe cases, the doctor recommends surgery, but this procedure carries risks, and the patient needs several weeks to heal from his wounds. Like any other operation, there are serious risks associated with infection, bleeding, complications from anesthesia.

Arteries
Arteries

The other more gentle choice is angioplasty. During this procedure, a small catheter is inserted into an arterial vessel and, by inflating it, the plaque is crushed and the patency of the artery is restored. At the same time, it is possible to place a stand that adheres to the wall of the vessel and thus maintains its patency.

Depending on how serious the disease is, the patient must take action. Everyone can help themselves by doing a few things - stop smoking and do regular exercise to help improve movement in small vessels. Consumption of healthy food is mandatory because excess fat and cholesterol are among the main causes of clogged arteries.

Harmful fats such as margarine and palm oil, fatty meats and foods rich in cholesterol should be avoided. Desserts and fizzy drinks should also be excluded. Consumption of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products is recommended.

People with peripheral arterial disease should take care of their feet - this includes wearing comfortable shoes, washing them daily, moisturizing with a suitable cream. Cuts, injuries and calluses should be treated appropriately.

Medications prescribed by your doctor should be taken regularly. Prophylactic examinations are mandatory.

The article is informative and does not replace a consultation with a doctor!

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