About P.A.D.: Special Treatments for P.A.D..
Special Treatments for P.A.D.:
P.A.D. is a common disease that occurs when the arteries in the legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, or plaque. When leg arteries are clogged, blood flow to the legs and feet is reduced which may cause pain when walking. P.A.D. may also lead to heart attack, stroke, amputation or death.
Like other diseases of the arteries, P.A.D. is treated by making lifestyle changes and taking medicines to lower your risk for a heart attack or stroke.
This means:
- quitting smoking
- taking medicines to keep your blood pressure, LDL (bad) cholesterol and blood glucose (if you have diabetes) under control
- taking antiplatelet medicines such as aspirin or clopidogrel
- getting regular physical activity such as walking for 30 minutes at least 3 or 4 times per week
- being referred to a special P.A.D. exercise program if you have pain or cramps in your legs
- following a heart healthy eating plan that has lots of fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products and that is moderate in total fat and low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
For most people with P.A.D., these tips may be enough to control the disease and even improve symptoms.
When leg arteries are so clogged or narrowed that they are not getting enough oxygen to supply the muscles in your legs, endovascular proceduresor bypass surgery may be needed to improve blood flow. These procedures often help to improve symptoms such as leg pain when walking. These treatments may also help to avoid losing a foot or leg due to severe P.A.D.
