Peripheral Arterial Disease
Effective PAD Treatment Options in Walker County
Peripheral Arterial Disease (or PAD) is a common vascular condition that
describes the narrowing of a patient's arteries in their arms and
legs. PAD is common in older patients and could be a sign of additional
arterial build-up (plaque) throughout the rest of the body.
At Huntsville Memorial Hospital our physicians and specialists offer our
cardio-vascular patients not only offer cutting-edge treatments to alleviate
this condition, but also assist patients to plan the lifestyle changes
they need to prevent this condition from further threatening their health.
For more information on our cardiovascular treatments, call us at Huntsville
Memorial Hospital today.
Understanding PAD
PAD is a result of plaque deposits that accumulate in the arteries in our
limbs (arms and legs). Because this plaque restricts the blood flow in
our limbs, it can cause painful cramps in our muscles—especially
our legs/calves. If advanced enough, PAD can also cause acute foot pain
and even ulcers on the surface of the skin.
Causes for PAD can include:
- Weight
- Diet
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Family history
PAD Treatment Options
Treatment strategies for PAD can vary based on how advanced the condition
in. The patients who are just starting to develop PAD symptoms, lifestyle
changes, including more exercise and a heart-healthy diet, can reduce
the effects of PAD. Medications used to regulate blood flow and cholesterol
levels may also be prescribed.
In more advanced cases, more invasive techniques might be necessary. Doctors
may recommend inserting a stent or even conducting a balloon angioplasty
to widen and reinforce a patient's artery. In some cases, a bypass
graft may be surgically installed to create a new pathway for the patient's
blood flow.
Whatever the case may be, our board-certified cardio-vascular specialists
will work one-on-one with our PAD patients and help them determine the
treatment strategy that will have the greatest positive impact on their
health. For more information—or to book an appointment—call us today.
Your health, Our community, Our commitment. Speak with us to learn more
about our cardiovascular services at Huntsville Memorial Hospital.