Steps Toward Limb Preservation: Understanding, Preventing, and Managing Peripheral Arterial Disease

Do you have numbness and a cold sensation in your extremities? You could be experiencing early signs of peripheral arterial disease, a condition known as PAD. You need to take steps to minimize the effects of peripheral arterial disease. Your doctor can help. Dr. William Montross at Montross Extremity Medical in Colorado Springs, CO, offers a wide range of podiatry and medical services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of peripheral arterial disease.

What You Need To Know About Peripheral Arterial Disease

Peripheral arterial disease is a vascular condition that can be caused by the buildup of fat on your arterial walls. The fat buildup causes the arteries to narrow, blocking off blood flow. This is especially evident in your extremities, including your feet. The most common early signs and symptoms of peripheral arterial disease include:

  • Deep, throbbing pain
  • Coldness or numbness
  • Tingling or loss of sensation
  • Weakness and fatigue

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, don’t ignore them. You need to seek out help from your doctor. If peripheral arterial disease goes untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications like deep vein thrombosis or stroke. In addition to visiting your doctor, you need to be proactive about taking care of yourself. You should:

  • Avoid smoking or drinking excessive alcohol
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes on most days of the week
  • Maintain a healthy weight by eating a low-fat diet
  • Keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control
  • Practice stress management techniques including deep breathing, yoga, and meditation

Your doctor will begin your visit with a comprehensive medical examination, which may include imaging studies and laboratory tests. In addition, your doctor may advise testing to check blood flow to your extremities. After a comprehensive examination, your doctor may prescribe medications to:

  • Lower your cholesterol levels
  • Lower your blood pressure
  • Dilate the walls of your arteries

For severe cases, catheterization may be advised to remove blockages and widen your arteries.

Want To Know More About Peripheral Arterial Disease?

To schedule an appointment for an evaluation or consultation, contact Dr. William Montross at Montross Extremity Medical in Colorado Springs, CO. Call (719) 365-7340 today.