Peripheral Artery Disease

aka Peripheral Arterial Disease, P.A.D., PAD, Atherosclerotic Peripheral Artery Disease, Peripheral Vascular Disease, Occlusive Arterial Disease, Intermittent Claudication, and Critical Limb-Threatening Ischemia

Peripheral Artery Disease is a circulatory problem that causes a narrowing in your leg arteries (and sometimes in your arms)

Over time, this prevents blood flow to your extremities, increasing your risk of more serious health problems, including amputation, heart attack, or stroke.

Peripheral Artery Disease is a serious, yet treatable health problem. Healthy lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet are enough to ease symptoms and improve your quality of life. However, more severe cases require medical treatment.

Peripheral Artery Disease affects people of all genders and races

Several factors may increase your risk. For example, Peripheral Artery Disease tends to affect people who are smokers or overweight. You’re also at an increased risk if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

Peripheral Artery Disease can be diagnosed by a physical exam and a review of your health history

If Dr. Gerges detects a weak pulse or notices you have slow-healing wounds, he might order additional testing, including ankle-brachial index (ABI) or doppler ultrasound.

ABI measures the difference between the blood pressure in your lower body to the blood pressure in your upper body. To get the most accurate reading possible, Dr. Gerges might have you walk on a treadmill before taking any readings.

Doppler ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to evaluate blood flow through your vessels. It’s a quick and efficient way to detect blocked or narrowed arteries.

Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease focuses on easing uncomfortable symptoms and preventing the progression of atherosclerosis (fat buildup)

If you have mild symptoms, Dr. Gerges might recommend healthy lifestyle changes like losing weight, exercising regularly, and managing your stress levels. If these measures don’t improve your symptoms, you might benefit from:

• Cholesterol-lowering medications
• High blood pressure medications
• Medications to prevent blood clots
• Medications to manage blood sugar
• Pain relievers to address leg cramps or aching

In serious cases of Peripheral Artery Disease, surgical intervention may be necessary. Dr. Gerges might recommend:

If you’re concerned about your risk of Peripheral Artery Disease, you can request a free consultation by clicking HERE or by calling our offices in El Paso at 915-855-6508, San Antonio at 210-481-9544, or Abilene at 325-268-4040.

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