Yes, PAD does not need to shorten your life! With proper PAD treatment, including lifestyle changes, peripheral artery disease medication, and potential surgical intervention, PAD can be managed. However, without any treatment, life longevity can decrease.

PAD symptoms in the legs often include pain and numbness in the toes due to reduced blood flow. The skin and nails may become rough and dry. Other effects can include non-healing wounds, and in severe cases, tissue death and gangrene.

PAD can cause pain and numbness in the toes due to insufficient blood flow. You might also notice rough and dry skin and nails, the development of wounds that don’t heal, or even death of tissue and gangrene. Seeking appropriate PAD treatment is crucial.

PAD reduces the amount of oxygen reaching the skin. This can lead to the rupture of small blood vessels and the development of scar tissue, giving the skin a darker and rougher appearance. Addressing the underlying PAD is key to improving circulation.

While completely reversing arterial plaque may not always be possible, some patients successfully manage their condition and slow its progression through lifestyle changes. This includes stopping smoking, managing diabetes and kidney disease, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, and exercising daily, often as part of a comprehensive PAD treatment plan.

 Plaque in arteries forms from the accumulation of fatty cells within the vessel walls, leading to inflammation and scarring. Calcium often deposits inside these plaques, causing “hardening of the arteries.” If you’re experiencing PAD symptoms, it’s important to consult with a specialist.