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PAD Frequently Asked Questions

Peripheral Arterial Disease FAQs

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common vascular disease that affects men and women over the age of 50. At American Endovascular, we want to educate patients about PAD and the associated causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments. If you would like to learn more about PAD, please read our frequently asked questions for more information.

What is PAD?

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a vascular disease most frequently found in the legs caused by the gradual buildup of cholesterol plaque in the arteries. Over time, the accumulation of plaque on the walls of the arteries can cause them to narrow, making it more difficult for blood to flow freely to the legs and feet.

How Common is PAD?

Peripheral arterial disease is a common disease for male and female patients over the age of 50. It is estimated that over 8.5 million people in the United States have PAD.

What Causes PAD?

Atherosclerosis is the main cause of peripheral arterial disease, which is when plaque or fatty deposits build up in your arteries. Different factors cause the vein walls to narrow and become rigid over time. Risk factors that contribute to PAD include:

  • Diabetes
  • Over age 50
  • High Cholesterol
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Inactive Lifestyle
  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Family history of vascular disease
What are PAD Symptoms?

Common signs and symptoms of PAD include: 

  • Cramping in the leg muscles while walking or exercising that goes away at rest
  • A pain in your legs or feet that wakes you up at night
  • Numbness or weakness in the affected limb(s)
  • Non-healing wounds or sores that heal slowly or fail to heal
  • Decreased rate of hair and nail growth on the affected limb(s)
  • Skin discoloration on your lower extremities that may appear as purple or blue
  • Foot pain while you are resting
How is PAD Diagnosed?

If PAD is suspected, your doctor will perform a non-invasive test to determine if you have the condition. The most common test is the Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABI), which measures the difference between your systolic blood pressure in your arms and your systolic pressure in your ankles. Based on the results of this test, an ultrasound might be ordered by your doctor to determine the extent of the blockage in your arteries. Angiography, Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) Scan, Duplex Ultrasonography, and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) may also be used to precisely find the exact location of the blockage if a procedure is needed.

How Can I Prevent PAD?

There are several ways you can reduce your risk for developing PAD.

  • Quit smoking 
  • Lower your blood pressure
  • Eat a healthier diet low in fat and cholesterol
  • Lose weight and maintain a healthy weight
  • Exercise regularly based on your doctors recommendations
  • If you have diabetes, follow all diet and medication recommendations from your doctor
  • Taking prescribed medications, such as beta blockers, aspirin, or medication to treat symptoms
How is PAD medically managed?

Medications to help improve symptoms of PAD focus on lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol, and in certain cases aspirin or other blood thinning medication. Your doctor may prescribe other medication to help reduce symptoms and may also recommend a regular exercise plan.

What are treatments for PAD?

Depending on the severity of your PAD, we offer various treatment options. Our affiliated vascular specialists will determine the best treatment option based on your symptoms and stage of PAD. Minimally invasive procedures offered at our outpatient centers include: 

  • Angioplasty
  • Atherectomy
  • Stent Placement
Can PAD be life-threatening?

If left untreated, patients who have peripheral arterial disease are at a much higher risk for cardiovascular death and severe health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and the development of non-healing wounds in the legs or feet that may lead to amputation.

What Our Patients Are Saying

Learn more about our patients’ experiences at American Endovascular.

Dr. Abadir and his staff are wonderful.
debdefran
debdefran
21:28 03 May 23
Very professional and informative
Kieran McDonald
Kieran McDonald
20:58 25 Apr 23
Wonderful staff very kind very thorough no waiting♥️. I’ve never been to a doctors office and treated with so much respect.. I’m looking forward to my next appointment 😇
Denise Sciarra
Denise Sciarra
16:16 17 Mar 23
The staff could not have been friendlier! I was treated so well and my procedure was a huge success!
Darcy Sala
Darcy Sala
14:44 28 Feb 23
Very friendly and hard working people. Excellent doctor and team!!!Thanks for being so helpful and encouraging!
finda jackson
finda jackson
13:37 03 Feb 23
Great experience very through staff are extremely helpful and friendly no wait time I highly recommend.
william cardoza
william cardoza
15:05 12 Sep 22
A doctor who listens, smart and personable, I liked him.
sherry svec
sherry svec
21:38 16 May 22
Went there for the first time didn’t have to fill out paperwork which constantly asked the same question. Nurses were friendly didn’t have to come back a second time to have test done did it rite then, doctor explain everything set up appointment to have procedure done and I’m very confident in the doctor
GARY DINI
GARY DINI
12:23 25 Jan 22
Excellent service. Dr. Abadir and staff were attentive and thoughtful. All communication regarding my visit were clear and concise and they took the time to listen and address all of my questions. Great visit!
dennis bernstein
dennis bernstein
14:50 21 Jan 22
I thank you very much you took good care I feel great I am very happy with you and I will be back .
Maleta Ford
Maleta Ford
14:24 02 Sep 21
Super friendly and communicative. Efficient staff in the office. A unique experience for a doctors office. Dr Abadir was concise and effective in his exam and explanations
William Silsdorf
William Silsdorf
19:56 07 Jun 21
I found the staff Extremely cordial and professional. Dr. Abidir took his time and explained what procedures needed to be doneAnd why he recommended them to establish a diagnosis.Dr. Abidir was reassuring and listened to and answered all of my questions.So far I am very pleased with the endo vascularProgram here.Clare Garvey
Clare Garvey
Clare Garvey
20:39 17 May 21
Pleased with staff and doctor is very compassionate
Jose Quinones
Jose Quinones
23:57 15 Mar 21
Thank you to you and your great staff.Bill Baratta
Rita Baratta
Rita Baratta
15:07 26 Jan 21
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