Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a serious heart condition. Dr. James McGuckin of Pennsylvania Vascular Institute can help diagnose and treat this condition at one of his convenient offices located in East Stroudsburg, Bethlehem, King of Prussia, Philadelphia, and Limerick, PA.
What is peripheral arterial disease (PAD)?
It is a common circulatory problem that happens when arteries narrow which reduces blood flow to the limbs, meaning a decrease of blood flow to the legs or arms. The vascular system is in danger because of plaque build-up blocking your arteries. If left untreated, this plaque hardens in a process called atherosclerosis.
Patients also experience leg pain, reduced pulse, and skin temperature changes because of reduced blood flow. This eventually affects mobility and quality of life and increases the risk of having a stroke and heart attack. Severe PAD is called Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI) and results in health complications like wounds that won't heal.
Symptoms of PAD include claudication (heavy legs), pain at rest, change in pulse, temperature changes, and non-healing wounds.
Here's a helpful risk assessment form if you'd like to learn more: PAD Risk Assessment Forms
Who Is At-Risk for Peripheral Arterial Disease?
PAD affects millions of people in the United States. Risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Kidney failure
- Obesity
- History of stroke or heart disease.
Diagnosis of PAD
At Pennsylvania Vascular Institute, Dr. McGuckin can perform several diagnostic tests including:
- Measuring blood pressures and blood flow
- Examining blood flow in the legs
- Using a CT Scanner to examine blood vessels
- Using an MRI to measure the severity of the disease
Treatment for PAD
Procedures may last about one hour with an average recovery time of only 2 hours, and include the following treatment options:
- Angioplasty
- Stent Placement
- Atherectomy
Do you need to speak with a doctor?
If you'd like to learn more about diagnosing PAD, risk factors, and treatment options, don't hesitate to contact Dr. McGuckin. You can contact him by calling the Pennsylvania Vascular Institute at 800-296-9294. He has several medical offices in East Stroudsburg, Bethlehem, King of Prussia, Philadelphia, and Limerick, PA, so rest assured about finding a place near you.