Arterial Occlusive Disease
What Is It?
When atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) occurs in the legs, it causes a disease known as lower extremity arterial occlusive disease. This results in diminished blood supply to the muscles and tissues, called more simply, poor circulation. Lower extremity arterial occlusive disease often co-exists with other conditions, such as carotid artery disease and heart disease.
Risk Factors
Risk factors include family history of atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and advanced age, as well as factors such as a sedentary lifestyle and smoking.
Symptoms
The symptoms of lower extremity arterial occlusive disease include:
- Pain in the calves or thighs while walking (also known as "claudication")
- Pain in the feet at rest
- Coolness, numbness, or weakness in the legs and/or feet
- Poor wound healing in the legs and/or feet
- Ulcers of the feet and legs
- Pain in the toes at rest
- Black discoloration of the toes or skin (gangrene)
Diagnosis
Arterial occlusive disease is diagnosed with a blood pressure test comparing the blood pressure measurement in the ankle to that in arm, known as the ankle brachial index (ABI). This measures the extent to which the blood supply is limited in the leg.
Additionally, imaging tests including angiography or MRA may be needed to determine the location and extent of disease in the legs.
Treatment
If symptoms are not severe, arterial occlusion can be sufficiently controlled by lifestyle changes including quitting smoking, regular exercise, and management of related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Blood-thinning drugs or other kinds of medication may also be prescribed. In more severe cases, a procedure may be required to open the artery and restore blood flow to the leg. This may be done with minimally invasive procedures such as angioplasty and stenting.
Learn more about Arterial Occlusion. » Go
For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).