PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE (PAD): It is a common but a serious medical condition in which narrowing of the arteries usually of the extremities Occur. This narrowing is the result of a plaque buildup (fatty deposits) in the lumen of the arteries especially of the lower limbs, that compromises the blood flow to keep up with the demand (LEG PAIN WHILE WALKING, being a common symptom).It could be a sign of the widespread involvement of the other arteries in the body like arteries to the heart or brain. People commonly don’t know they have it until they have a heart attack or stroke.
RISK FACTORS:
1• Smoking
2• Age over 50
3• High cholesterol level
4• Diabetes
5• High blood pressure
6• Family history
7• Obesity
8• Lack of exercise
SYMPTOMS:
The main symptom of PAD is pain, fatigue, burning, and achiness in the muscles of the foot, calves or thighs when walking faster, uphill, climbing stairs or walk for longer distances. This gradually becomes worse and pain may even occur while at rest or lying down.
COMPLICATIONS:
1• Severe ischemia may lead to gangrene of foot and may need amputation
2. Heart attack
3. Stroke
DIAGNOSES:
1• Blood tests may show high cholesterol & triglycerides levels
2• Doppler ultrasound
3• MRA
4• CTA
TREATMENT:
1. Avoid the risk factors
2. Medications to control diabetes, hypertension, pain killers and medicines that prevent blood clots
3. Surgery a) Angioplasty b) Bypass surgery