What is vascular disease in the legs?
What is vascular disease in the legs?
Peripheral vascular disease can affect all types of blood vessels. Blood flow is restricted to the tissue because of spasm or narrowing of the vessel. This disease more often affects the blood vessels in the legs. The most common symptom is pain, which becomes worse as the circulation more limited.
Is PAD disease fatal?
While peripheral artery disease itself isn’t usually fatal, it could be a sign there are other blockages that could cause a deadly heart attack or stroke, according to Michael Go, MD, a surgeon with the Integrated Vascular Center at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Can peripheral vascular disease be cured?
There’s no cure for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), but lifestyle changes and medicine can help reduce the symptoms. These treatments can also help reduce your risk of developing other types of cardiovascular disease (CVD), such as: coronary heart disease. stroke.
How do you fix vascular problems in legs?
Your doctor may prescribe daily aspirin therapy or another medication, such as clopidogrel (Plavix). Symptom-relief medications. The drug cilostazol increases blood flow to the limbs both by keeping the blood thin and by widening the blood vessels.
How do you know if you have vascular problems in your legs?
Peripheral artery disease signs and symptoms include: Painful cramping in one or both of your hips, thighs or calf muscles after certain activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. Leg numbness or weakness. Coldness in your lower leg or foot, especially when compared with the other side.
What are the stages of PAD?
Classification Schemes
| Stage 0 | Asymptomatic |
|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Mild claudication |
| Stage 2 | Moderate claudication |
| Stage 3 | Severe claudication |
| Stage 4 | Rest pain |
What are some vascular problems in the legs?
Peripheral Vascular Disease. Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a blood circulation disorder that causes the blood vessels outside of your heart and brain to narrow, block, or spasm. This can happen in your arteries or veins. PVD typically causes pain and fatigue, often in your legs, and especially during exercise.
What are the treatment options for vascular disease?
The treatments will also lower your risk for serious complications. First-line treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications. Your doctor will suggest a regular exercise program that includes walking, a balanced diet, and losing weight. If you smoke, you should quit. Smoking directly causes reduced blood flow in vessels.