Smokers are at higher PAD risk; and stents can treat it.

What Is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) involves the accumulation of plaque within the arteries of the legs, through which oxygen and nutrient-rich blood is transported from the heart to the limbs. It is a common vascular issue where narrowed arteries restrict blood flow to the limbs, resulting in insufficient circulation to support regular walking, leading to a characteristic symptom known as claudication, causing leg pain during walking that subsides with rest but recurs upon resuming activity.

The progression of PAD varies among individuals and is influenced by multiple factors, such as the location of plaque formation and overall health status. Some individuals may experience a more rapid deterioration of the condition compared to others.

How Common Is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is common, affecting millions worldwide. Its incidence increases with age and is more common in smokers and individuals with diabetes. Despite its high prevalence, PAD often goes undiagnosed, leading to complications. Awareness and early detection are important for the effective management and prevention of PAD-related complications.

What Are the Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

Peripheral artery disease symptoms include:

• Pain or cramping in the muscles of the leg, hip, or buttock during activity like walking or climbing stairs.
• The pain subsides with rest but returns upon resuming activity.
• Numbness, weakness, or heaviness sensation in legs or feet, especially during movement.
• Colder affected leg or foot compared to the unaffected limb.
• Skin changes like color alteration, shininess, or thinning.
• Non-healing sores, ulcers, or wounds on legs, feet, or toes.
• Reduced leg hair growth and slower toenail growth.
• Weak or absent pulse in the affected leg or foot.
• Erectile dysfunction in men.
• In advanced PAD stages, leg or foot pain may occur even at rest or when lying down, disrupting sleep and impacting quality of life.

What Causes Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

• Atherosclerosis leads to the buildup of plaque (fatty deposits) in artery walls, narrowing the arteries and restricting blood flow.
• Smoking is a major risk factor; it damages artery walls and accelerates plaque formation.
• Risk increases with age, as arteries naturally become stiffer and narrower over time.
• Diabetes, with its high blood sugar levels, contributes to artery damage and atherosclerosis.
• High blood pressure and cholesterol, contributing to plaque formation and artery narrowing.
• Obesity (a body mass index over 30) also increases the risk.
• Risk increases with a family history of peripheral artery disease, heart disease, or stroke.

What Are the Complications Linked to Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

Complications associated with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) include:

• Critical limb ischemia
• Stroke and heart attack
• Wound healing problems
• Pain and mobility issues

How to Prevent Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

To prevent Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), consider the following:

• Quit smoking
• Manage diabetes
• Eat a balanced diet
• exercise regularly
• manage weight to reduce risk factors
• Manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Take good care of your feet
• Raise the head of your bed
• Avoid cold temperatures and dress in warm layers
• Regular medical check-ups

How Do You Get Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Diagnosed?

To diagnose Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), healthcare providers may:

• Conduct a physical exam
• Measure the ankle-brachial index (ABI)
• Use blood tests
• Doppler ultrasound
• Catheter angiography
• Perform imaging tests, such as X-rays, computerized tomography angiography (CTA), Doppler ultrasound, angiography, or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)

How is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Treated?

Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) aims to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve circulation. Its treatment options include:

• Lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Medications to prevent blood clot formation, enhance blood circulation, maintain blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and lessen pain and other symptoms.
• Angioplasty and stenting are minimally invasive procedures used to widen narrowed arteries and improve blood flow.
• Bypass surgery helps redirect blood flow around blocked arteries using grafts.
• Thrombolytic therapy is beneficial when a blood clot obstructs an artery; in such cases, a clot-dissolving drug may be administered directly into the affected artery.

What Is the Non-Surgical Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

Non-Surgical Treatment Using Stent to Open the Block!

Non-surgical treatment using stents to open arterial blockages is a common approach, particularly for short-segment blockages. During this procedure, a catheter is inserted into the affected artery, and a small balloon at the catheter’s tip is inflated to reopen the artery and compress the plaque against the arterial wall, thereby restoring blood flow. A stent is then inserted to keep the artery open.

The non-surgical treatment utilizing stents is considered to be the best option for treating Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) by opening the blockage.

What Are the Advantages of Interventional Non-Surgical Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

The advantages of non-surgical stenting include the following:

• It is a minimally invasive procedure, avoiding the need for traditional surgery.
• Leaves no visible scars on the skin.
• It is generally less expensive than surgical procedures.
• Administered with local anesthesia, avoiding general anesthesia.
• Often performed as an outpatient or with short hospital stays.
• Patients can quickly resume normal activities.
• Provides fast relief from symptoms for many cancer patients.
• It has been proven to be safe with years of successful use.

Exploring Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Treatment in India

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate management to prevent complications and improve patients’ quality of life. Non-surgical stenting represents a valuable treatment option, offering numerous advantages over traditional surgical approaches.

For patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), seeking treatment in India offers top-notch care. PAD treatment in India is renowned for its excellence, particularly in non-surgical approaches. Additionally, non-surgical PAD treatment cost in India is significantly lower compared to many other countries, making it a cost-effective option for international patients.

Patients can benefit from state-of-the-art technology, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate care while undergoing PAD treatment in India. With its expertise, affordability, and quality care, India stands out as a premier destination for patients seeking effective management of Peripheral Artery Disease.