Arterial Disease

Arterial Disease Treatment & Surgery

Arterial disease, also known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or atherosclerosis, is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for safeguarding vascular health and mitigating potential complications. Whether you would simply like to see an arterial disease doctor or get started on arterial disease treatment, the professionals at National Vascular Associates are here to help. Call us or continue reading to learn more about our services.

The Nature Of Arterial Disease And Its Risk Factors

The buildup of plaque in the arteries impedes the smooth flow of blood, compromising the body’s capability to deliver oxygen and nutrients to vital organs and tissues. Several factors contribute to the development and progression of arterial disease. Understanding and mitigating these risk factors are essential steps in preventing or managing the condition.

Smoking
High Blood Pressure, or Hypertension
High Cholesterol
Diabetes
Advancing Age and Family History
Sedentary Lifestyles

Individuals with higher risk are urged to see a vascular disease doctor regularly. Early diagnosis and intervention can quite literally be a life-or-death matter. National Vascular Associates is here to help when you need a licensed physician.

Recognizing The Symptoms Of Arterial Disease

Whether you are predisposed to arterial disease or simply want to stay healthy, recognizing the symptoms is fundamental.
One of the hallmark symptoms of arterial disease is claudication, characterized by pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs during physical activity. The discomfort typically subsides with rest but returns upon resuming activity.
Arterial disease may manifest as changes in skin color, often appearing pale or bluish, and a noticeable drop in temperature in the affected areas. Reduced blood flow can also lead to sensations of numbness or weakness in the affected limbs.
As you might imagine, impaired blood flow hinders the body's ability to heal, leading to slow-healing wounds, particularly in the legs and feet. Reduced blood supply even affects nail and hair growth, leading to brittle nails and diminished hair growth on the affected limbs.

Treatment Options And Strategies

Tackling arterial disease calls for a holistic and strategic approach. Embracing lifestyle changes forms the foundation of arterial disease management. This includes quitting smoking, adopting a healthy diet, and getting regular physical exercise.
Pharmacological interventions may also be prescribed to address specific aspects of arterial disease. Aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs reduce the risk of blood clots while statins and other cholesterol-lowering medications help manage lipid levels. A vascular disease doctor is best suited to prescribe the right medications.
For cases where lifestyle modifications and medications are insufficient, endovascular procedures may be considered. These include angioplasty and atherectomy. In more advanced cases, surgical interventions may be recommended:

Bypass Surgery: A graft is used to reroute blood flow around blocked arteries, restoring circulation.
Endarterectomy: The removal of plaque from artery walls.

Take Control Of Your Vascular Health

Empowering individuals with knowledge about arterial disease and its treatment options is a key element in our collective effort to navigate the path to vascular health. If you’d like to consult with a licensed physician, then call National Vascular Associates to schedule a convenient appointment or face-to-face meeting.