Understanding Treatment Options for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Understanding Your Treatment Path

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) treatment focuses on managing symptoms, reducing risk factors, and preventing complications. Your treatment plan will be personalized based on your symptoms, disease severity, and overall health.

Conservative Management

Lifestyle Modifications

• Smoking cessation
• Regular exercise (supervised walking programs)
• Heart-healthy diet
• Weight management

Medication Options

1. Antiplatelet Medications

   • Aspirin
   • Clopidogrel (Plavix)

2. Cholesterol Management

   • Statins
   • Other lipid-lowering medications

3. Blood Pressure Control

   • ACE inhibitors
   • Beta-blockers

Interventional Treatments

Minimally Invasive Procedures

1. Angioplasty

   • Balloon dilation of narrowed arteries
   • Usually performed with stent placement

2. Stenting

   • Metal mesh tubes to keep arteries open
   • Drug-eluting or bare-metal options

Surgical Options

1. Bypass Surgery

   • Creates alternative blood flow path
   • Used for severe blockages

2. Endarterectomy

   • Removal of plaque buildup
   • Typically for larger arteries

Follow-up Care

• Regular monitoring of symptoms
• Ongoing risk factor management
• Periodic vascular assessments
• Medication adjustments as needed

When to Seek Immediate Care

• Sudden leg pain or coldness
• New or worsening ulcers
• Color changes in affected limb
• Severe pain at rest