How Peripheral Vascular Disease Affects Your Heart Health

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory condition that occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly the legs. 

While PAD affects blood flow in the legs, its impact extends far beyond, with serious implications for heart health. Left untreated, PAD significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. 

At Surgical Associates Chartered in Reston, Virginia, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating PAD, helping patients improve circulation and protect their heart health. 

This blog explains the link between PAD and heart health, the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available.

What is Peripheral Vascular Disease (PAD)?

PAD is caused by the buildup of fatty deposits, or plaques, in the arteries (atherosclerosis), which restricts blood flow to the limbs, particularly the legs. This decreased circulation can cause pain, cramping, and muscle weakness. 

Over time, untreated PAD can lead to more serious conditions like tissue damage, ulcers, and even amputation in extreme cases. 

However, its effects go beyond limb health, as PAD is also closely tied to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing these complications.

How PAD Affects Your Heart Health

PAD is a clear indicator of systemic atherosclerosis, the same process that causes coronary artery disease. The plaque buildup that affects arteries in the limbs can also occur in the arteries that supply the heart and brain, leading to major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. 

In fact, patients with PAD are much more likely to experience heart disease due to compromised circulation and increased strain on the cardiovascular system.

Key connections between PAD and heart health include:

• Increased Risk of Heart Attack: The same atherosclerosis causing PAD often affects coronary arteries, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks.
• Elevated Stroke Risk: Blocked arteries, whether in the limbs or the brain, elevate the chances of suffering from a stroke.
• Heart Strain: The heart must work harder to pump blood through narrowed arteries, increasing the risk of heart failure.

Causes and Risk Factors of PAD

PAD is largely driven by the same risk factors that contribute to heart disease. These include lifestyle choices, underlying health conditions, and genetics. 

Understanding these risk factors can help in managing and reducing the likelihood of developing PAD and its associated complications.

Common causes and risk factors of PAD include:

• Atherosclerosis: The buildup of plaques in the arteries restricts blood flow and is the primary cause of PAD.
• Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, accelerates the hardening of arteries, and significantly increases the risk of PAD.
• High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Elevated blood pressure and cholesterol contribute to plaque buildup and hardening of the arteries.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels damage the arteries, making diabetic individuals more susceptible to PAD.
• Obesity and Inactivity: Being overweight and sedentary puts extra strain on the circulatory system and contributes to the development of PAD.

Symptoms of Peripheral Vascular Disease

PAD often progresses silently, but certain symptoms can signal its presence. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for seeking timely treatment and preventing heart-related complications.

Symptoms to watch for include:

• Leg Pain During Activity (Claudication): One of the most common symptoms of PAD is leg pain or cramping during walking or exercise, which disappears with rest.
• Cold or Numb Legs or Feet: Poor circulation can result in coldness or numbness, particularly in the lower extremities.
• Sores or Ulcers on Legs or Feet: Chronic wounds that are slow to heal are a sign of reduced blood flow and advanced PAD.
• Weak or Absent Pulse in the Legs: A weakened pulse in the legs or feet may indicate poor circulation and requires prompt medical attention.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for PAD Treatment?

PAD treatment is essential for those at high risk of heart disease or those experiencing symptoms. Ideal candidates for PAD screening and treatment include patients with risk factors such as smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of cardiovascular diseases.

Ideal candidates for PAD treatment include:

• Individuals with a history of smoking or tobacco use.
• Those diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
• Patients experiencing symptoms like leg pain, cramping, or ulcers.
• Those with a family history of heart disease or stroke.

At Surgical Associates Chartered, we offer comprehensive assessments to determine the best treatment plan for each patient based on their individual needs and risk factors.

Treatment Options for Peripheral Vascular Disease

There are several effective treatments available to manage PAD, ranging from lifestyle changes to more advanced surgical procedures. The goal of treatment is to improve blood flow, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Lifestyle Modifications and Medication

The first line of treatment often involves lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, increasing physical activity, and following a heart-healthy diet.

Medications may also be prescribed to lower cholesterol, blood pressure, or blood sugar levels.

• Non-invasive and easy to incorporate into daily routines.
• Helps manage both PAD and heart disease simultaneously.
• Can slow the progression of atherosclerosis.

Angioplasty and Stenting

In more advanced cases, angioplasty may be necessary to open narrowed arteries. A balloon is inserted into the artery and inflated to widen it, and a stent may be placed to keep the artery open.

• Minimally invasive with short recovery times.
• Provides immediate improvement in circulation.
• Effective for moderate to severe cases of PAD.

Bypass Surgery

For severe blockages, bypass surgery creates a new pathway for blood flow around the blocked artery using a graft.

• Long-term relief from symptoms.
• Improves blood flow in severely affected areas.
• Reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Thrombolytic Therapy

Thrombolytic therapy is used to dissolve blood clots that may be blocking blood flow in an artery.

• Effective for acute cases of blood clots.
• Minimally invasive and can prevent more serious complications.
• Restores blood flow quickly.

Benefits of Early Treatment for PAD

Early treatment for PAD not only improves quality of life by reducing symptoms but also significantly reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications. 

Managing PAD in its early stages is crucial to preventing its progression and the potential for severe heart conditions.

Key benefits of early treatment include:

• Pain Relief: Treating PAD reduces leg pain and discomfort, allowing patients to engage in regular activities without limitations.
• Improved Circulation: Treatments restore blood flow to the affected limbs, improving mobility and reducing the risk of limb amputation.
• Reduced Cardiovascular Risk: Addressing PAD early helps prevent the development of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.

Aftercare Tips Following PAD Treatment

After treatment for PAD, following your doctor’s aftercare instructions is critical to maintaining the benefits of treatment and preventing the condition from returning or worsening. Lifestyle changes, medication adherence, and regular checkups are key components of aftercare.

Aftercare tips include:

• Regular Exercise: Engage in light to moderate physical activity to improve circulation and maintain the benefits of treatment.
• Follow a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and salt supports overall cardiovascular health and prevents further arterial blockages.
• Medication Adherence: Take any prescribed medications consistently to manage cholesterol, blood pressure, or diabetes.
• Avoid Smoking: Quitting smoking is essential to prevent the progression of PAD and protect the heart.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does PAD affect heart health?
PAD is closely linked to heart disease as it signals widespread atherosclerosis, which can affect arteries in both the limbs and the heart, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Can PAD be cured?
While PAD cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes, medication, and in some cases, surgical intervention.

How is PAD diagnosed?
PAD is diagnosed using non-invasive tests like the ankle-brachial index (ABI), ultrasounds, or angiography to assess blood flow in the limbs.

Is PAD life-threatening?
PAD can become life-threatening if left untreated, as it significantly raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, and severe complications like limb amputation.

Why Choose Surgical Associates Chartered for PAD Treatment?

At Surgical Associates Chartered in Reston, Virginia, we provide expert care for patients with Peripheral Vascular Disease (PAD), using the latest diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to improve both vascular and heart health. 

Our personalized treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring the best outcomes for long-term health and well-being. 

Whether you need lifestyle guidance, medication, or advanced interventions, our experienced team is here to help. Schedule your consultation today

to take control of your vascular health and protect your heart!

Dr. Rodeen Rahbar

Dr. Rahbar is an esteemed vascular surgeon at Surgical Associates Chartered, known for their exceptional contributions to the field of vascular surgery. As a board-certified vascular surgeon with over 20 years of invaluable experience, Dr. Rahbar is a respected authority in the medical community serving Camp Spring, Maryland and the whole community of Mryland. Their unwavering dedication to providing advanced care for patients with diseases of the arteries and veins has earned them a reputation for excellence. Dr. Rahbar’s work embodies a passion for precision and compassion, improving the lives of those they serve, one procedure at a time.