Peripheral Arterial Disease
•Last Updated: October 13, 2024
Peripheral arterial disease is a condition characterized by a narrowing of the arteries that carry blood away from the heart to other parts of the body. It is usually caused by atherosclerosis. The legs and feet are most commonly affected, resulting in reduced blood flow to these areas.
Peripheral Arterial Disease falls under theCardiovascular Healthcategory.
Last Updated:October 13, 2024
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) affects approximately 6% of adults worldwide and is caused by atherosclerosis, which leads to narrowed or blocked arteries in the limbs, primarily the lower limbs. PAD can significantly reduce quality of life, increase the risk of lower limb amputation, and elevate the risk of death from coronary heart disease.
The main symptom of peripheral arterial disease is intermittent claudication, which is characterized by lower-leg pain during physical activity that subsides with rest. Other symptoms include resting pain, cold or numb toes, persistent sores or ulcers, and clinical signs such as weak pulses and muscle atrophy in the lower leg.
Peripheral arterial disease is diagnosed using a resting ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, which compares blood pressure in the ankles and arms. If the ABI indicates abnormalities, further imaging tests like ultrasound or angiography are conducted to assess the severity and location of arterial narrowing or blockage.
Medical treatments for peripheral arterial disease focus on modifying risk factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, and high blood glucose and lipids. Key interventions include smoking cessation, regular exercise, lipid-lowering medications, and specific drugs to alleviate symptoms and prevent cardiovascular events.
Several supplements have been studied for peripheral arterial disease, including alpha-lipoic acid, arginine, and carnitine, and carnitine has shown benefits in reducing calf pain and increasing walking distance. Additionally, supplementation with nitrate has been found to improve blood flow, vascular function, and exercise capacity in affected individuals.
A higher saturated fat intake may increase the risk of peripheral arterial disease, whereas a Mediterranean diet has been associated with a lower risk. However, the direct effects of specific diets or nutrients on the disease remain unclear and need further research.
When the main treatments for peripheral arterial disease are inadequate, revascularization procedures like balloon angioplasty can restore blood flow and alleviate symptoms. Emerging treatments such as nitrate drugs, autologous stem cell therapy, and electrical stimulation show promise but need further research to confirm their safety and effectiveness.
Peripheral arterial disease is caused by the narrowing or blockage of arteries due to a progressive build-up of fatty plaques, a process known as atherosclerosis. This condition is influenced by genetic factors and is exacerbated by lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excessive weight gain.
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