Peripheral vascular disease (blocked blood vessels)

Description The buildup of plaq...

Description

The buildup of plaque in the walls of arteries (atherosclerosis) is the cause of peripheral vascular disease. The artery becomes narrow. During exercise a narrowed vessel is unable to provide adequate blood flow to the muscles causing pain and weakness. The symptoms are relieved by rest.

Symptoms

Pain in the buttock or leg with exercise (this symptom is called "claudication"), cool feet, weak pulse, numbness, skin discoloration.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood pressures are taken in the arm and the leg, and these are compared ("ankle to brachial index"). Ultrasound of blood vessels is named "Doppler." This can be used to help evaluate narrowed arteries. CT angiogram or standard angiogram (x-ray after dye is injected) may also be used.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)

Other Specific Tests: CT angiogram, Angiogram

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Vascular Surgery, Family Practice, Vascular and Interventional Radiology

Treatment

The two most helpful treatments are exercise and quitting smoking. Blood pressure control, diabetes control, and anti-platelet medications (aspirin, clopidogrel/Plavix) are also. Surgical procedures include intra-arterial stenting and bypass. Complications from peripheral vascular disease (such as ulcers and infections that do not heal with treatment) may lead to a need for amputation.