Services Vascular Surgery Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral Artery Disease

Learn more about peripheral artery disease and available treatment options from the expert team of vascular specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic.

Peripheral Artery Disease Overview

What is peripheral artery disease?

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is one of the most common vascular diseases. PAD is a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to the head, organs and limbs. Plaque contains cholesterol, fat, fibrous tissue, calcium and other substances in the blood. This plaque can harden and narrow in the arteries over time, limiting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the organs and other parts of the body, a condition called atherosclerosis.

Symptoms of PAD
Peripheral Artery Disease Causes and Risk Factors
Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment
Choose Us for Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment

Symptoms of PAD

The most common symptom of PAD is pain or cramping in the leg, but many people with PAD have no symptoms or mistake their symptoms for something else.

Symptoms of severe peripheral artery disease include:

Fatigue or muscle cramps while walking: Fatigue or muscle cramps (claudication) in the calf, thigh, hip or buttock may signal you have PAD. The discomfort is usually felt after walking a certain distance and goes away with rest.
Pain in the toes or feet while resting: If you have pain in your toes or feet while resting, you may have an advancing case of PAD.
Open wound on toes or feet: An open wound or ulcer on your toes or feet, often at a pressure point on the foot, can signal a serious case of PAD. An ulcer can progress to gangrene. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Peripheral Artery Disease Causes and Risk Factors

Adults over 50 are at an increased risk of developing PAD. Genetic factors also play a role but are not well understood. Other causes include:

Smoking
High cholesterol or high triglycerides
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Kidney failure
Obesity

Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment

PAD is a common vascular condition associated with poor health and could lead to death if not diagnosed and treated early. Managing peripheral artery disease requires a comprehensive approach to the patient with an emphasis on cardiovascular risk factor modification, along with therapies directed at the treatment of limb symptoms.

Our vascular specialists will ensure you receive the best possible care. Treatments may include:

Medical management
Ongoing monitoring of vascular health
Diagnostic ultrasound and arteriography
Endovascular treatment (angioplasty, stents, atherectomy)
Surgical bypass procedures
Hybrid therapies

Choose Us for Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment

The vascular team at Hattiesburg Clinic includes a skilled team of doctors and a knowledgeable staff who work together to provide you with comprehensive care in one location. Our vascular specialists are leaders in their field and use the latest cutting-edge treatment options that result in less pain and scarring, shorter hospital stays and a faster recovery. Call us to request your appointment today.