If you have been diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease in New Jersey, your doctor will develop treatment plans to manage your condition. The goal of treatment is to both manage symptoms that may be hindering your physical activity, and to stop the progression of atherosclerosis throughout your body, thus reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Peripheral artery disease causes include, but are not limited to:
Depending on the severity of your peripheral artery disease, or PAD, any or a combination of the following may be recommended.
You may be prescribed medication to help with many of the symptoms that come with PAD. Some of the symptoms for which you may be prescribed medication include:
It’s important to consult with your doctor before beginning any sort of treatment via medication, as they may not be necessary for very long periods.
If your PAD is not causing claudication or another serious issue, your doctor will likely suggest a series of lifestyle changes that can help alleviate your PAD symptoms over time. These changes may include:
Smoking is a direct cause of the constriction of your arteries, which can cause and worsen symptoms of PAD.
Eating foods that are high in saturated fats can lead to a plethora of health issues, including those that contribute to PAD. These include diabetes, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease. Creating and maintaining a heart-healthy diet filled with vegetables and fruits can help prevent and treat PAD.
Exercise can help your muscles use oxygen more efficiently, thus extending how far you may be able to walk without pain. In addition, exercise can help your blood flow, preventing further issues with cardiovascular disease and cholesterol.
If your PAD can’t be remedied via medications or exercise or has reached a specific level of severity, your doctor may recommend a traditional or minimally invasive surgical procedure.
Your surgeon will insert a small catheter into the artery that is blocked or has restricted blood flow. On the tip of the catheter, a balloon will be expanded, creating a wider channel that allows the blood to pass freely. This is a very common form of treatment for PAD.
Similar to an angioplasty, the atherectomy begins with a catheter inserted into the blocked or restricted area. However, instead of using a balloon, this procedure uses a small blade to shave away the plaque that is blocking the artery and removes it from your body.
This is often the last resort for PAD treatment and is not typically discussed during the first stages of the treatment process. If PAD is affecting major arteries, a bypass procedure may be warranted to allow blood to pass.
The cardiologists at Med Group NJ are passionate about providing peripheral artery disease treatment to patients suffering from symptoms of it. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.