Aterosclerose: Acesso Aberto

Abstrato

Understanding Peripheral Artery Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Ekaterina Halley

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), a common vascular condition, arises from atherosclerosis, resulting in narrowed
or blocked arteries, predominantly in the legs. The causes and risk factors for PAD encompass smoking, diabetes, high
blood pressure, high cholesterol, age, family history, obesity, and inactivity. Symptoms include intermittent claudication,
coldness, numbness, sores, ulcers, weak pulses, hair loss, and shiny skin. Diagnosis relies on physical examination,
ankle-brachial index, Doppler ultrasound, angiography, and blood tests. Treatment involves lifestyle changes,
medication, angioplasty, stenting, bypass surgery, exercise therapy, wound care, and symptom-relief medications. Early
detection and management are crucial to mitigate complications, making PAD a condition that warrants attention and
care.