If you’ve recently been diagnosed with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and are feeling overwhelmed, we want you to know that there are plenty of options you have to treat your PAD. As you probably know, there is currently no cure to rid PAD permanently, but there are lifestyle changes and procedures available to reduce the progression of the disease.
How You Can Treat PAD With Lifestyle Changes
Quit smoking. Smoking cigarettes can cause inflammation, which can lead to plaque buildup in your artery walls. Plaque buildup in your arteries increases your risk of suffering from severe a form of PAD.
Adjusting your diet. A low-carb or a low-fat diet is recommended for PAD sufferers. If you struggle with dieting, your doctor or a registered dietitian can help guide you in making the right dietary changes and give you tasty, healthy alternatives for your favorite foods.
Start Exercising. PAD patients who started to walk regularly have noticed improvements in the distance they can walk before experiencing leg pain. Your local hospital or physical rehabilitation center may have programs dedicated to those suffering from PAD, and your insurance may cover it.
Take care of your feet and skin. Wear comfortable shoes to avoid feeling extra uncomfortable when walking. Examining your feet and legs for cracks, sores, and cuts can help prevent infection and reduce your risk of complications.
PAD Treatments in Philadelphia, PA:
Angioplasty and Stenting. During an angioplasty, a catheter is used to open the blocked or narrowed arteries by inserting a balloon into the artery. The doctor performing the procedure will inflate the balloon, which is meant to push away the hardened plaque. They may opt to add a stent, or small meshed tube, to maintain the opening of the blood vessel. This procedure is performed to restore blood flow through the arteries.
Atherectomy. This procedure involves using a small catheter to shave or cut plaque off of the blocked artery. Pieces of plaque will be removed by the catheter or through the bloodstream. The results of this procedure are increased blood flow to the peripheral tissue.
Patients looking to receive cutting-edge peripheral artery disease treatment in Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley, or King of Prussia, PA, can contact the PA Vascular Institute today at 800-614-7294.