Peripheral Arterial Disease
Expert diagnosis and treatment in DeSoto, TX | Serving Dallas County
What is Peripheral Arterial Disease?
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly the legs and feet. This condition increases the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, amputation. PAD is often a sign of widespread arterial disease that may affect the heart and brain.
Causes
Several factors can contribute to the development of peripheral arterial disease:
- Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries)
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Age over 50
- Family history
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of peripheral arterial disease include:
- Leg pain or cramping with walking (claudication)
- Pain that improves with rest
- Coldness in lower leg or foot
- Numbness or weakness
- Color changes in the foot
- Slow-healing sores
- Decreased pulse in feet
- Shiny skin and hair loss on legs
Diagnosis
Our podiatrists use several methods to accurately diagnose peripheral arterial disease:
- Ankle-brachial index (ABI) testing
- Doppler ultrasound
- Angiography
- Pulse examination
Treatment Options
At Infinity Foot & Ankle in DeSoto, TX, we offer comprehensive treatment options for peripheral arterial disease:
- Smoking cessation
- Exercise program
- Medications to improve blood flow
- Cholesterol and blood pressure management
- Antiplatelet therapy
- Angioplasty or bypass surgery
- Wound care and infection prevention
When to See a Podiatrist
Seek immediate care for sudden coldness, numbness, or color change in a foot or leg. Schedule evaluation for leg pain with walking, slow-healing wounds, or other PAD symptoms.