Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is caused by the blockage of arteries and affects millions of people over the age of 50 every year. Today we would like to share the story of Bernard D, 62, a retired airport parking manager who shared his PAD journey with Daily mail.
“The cramp always started when I went out walking and got worse if I speeded up,” recalls Bernard. “The pain didn’t stop until I sat down again-and never came when I was resting. It was a puzzle,” shares Bernard. “I ignored it first-it was more of pins and needles-type numbness rather than something that stopped me in my tracks, but the problem carried on and was putting me off walking”
Bernard had no idea that this leg pain and numbness in his legs was due to a vascular disease called PAD which causes blockage in the outer arteries of the body including legs.
“Like most men I don’t like to go to the doctor often as I don’t like to bother them, but I ‘m so happy I did,” says Bernard.
Some people like Bernard G experience the painful symptoms of PAD but there are others who don’t experience any symptoms of the disease and it silently progresses in their body like a time bomb ready to explode. In earlier stages most PAD patients experience pain in the calf, thigh or hip muscle while walking that usually stops at rest. This symptom is called “Intermittent Claudication”, and is one of the most classic symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease. Intermittent Claudication is the result of decreased blood flow to the legs making it difficult to cater the physical effort. If symptoms of PAD are left untreated they can lead to serious complications such as heart disease or limb amputation.
At USA Vascular Centers we offer a minimally invasive and non-surgical treatment for PAD called Stent Angioplasty– performed as an outpatient procedure. Most patients experienced an improved quality of life after a Stent Angioplasty and their mobility is increased.
If you are suffering from the symptoms of PAD such as leg pain while walking or exercising which stops at rest call (888) 628 9389 to schedule a consultation with our vascular specialists. Treatments at USA Vascular Centers are covered by Medicare and most insurance plans.
