Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Treatments for Peripheral Arterial Disease in Kissimmee, FL
Hannum Vascular provides highly-effective treatments for patients with peripheral arterial disease in Kissimmee, FL. Our vascular surgeon, Dr. Scott Hannum, is board-certified in vascular surgery and well-versed in non-invasive alternatives to surgery. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) impacts eight to 10 million people in the United States, making it one of the most common arterial conditions. The circulatory disease occurs when plaque deposits build up in the walls of the blood vessels, narrowing them and reducing blood flow. The plaque can be soft or calcified, and harder plaque buildups are more difficult to treat with traditional procures. Risk factors include those over 50, smokers and former smokers, diabetes, high blood cholesterol, and pressure. Additionally, those with a history of stroke, vascular disease, heart attack, and renal insufficiency are also at risk.
The Symptoms of PAD and How to Track Them
You should track your symptoms before you call our offices because it will help Dr. Hannum diagnose you and devise a treatment. For instance, you should note when your leg symptoms began and how they have changed. Keep track of which leg is most bothersome and ask what kind of effect it has on your lifestyle. You can also note which activities are no longer possible. Pay attention to the following symptoms:
- Leg pain, fatigue, heaviness, tiredness, and cramping while walking or climbing stairs.
- Pain in the legs or feet that disturbs your sleep.
- Sores or wounds on your legs, feet, and toes that do not heal or heal slowly.
- Inconsistent leg temperatures.
- Poor nail growth or decreased hair growth on your legs.
Understanding Peripheral Arterial Disease Is Essential
Understanding that peripheral arterial disease can significantly impact your life is crucial. If left untreated, it can cause a stroke or cause gangrene and result in amputation. Fortunately, it is painless, easy to diagnose, and even easier to treat. Taking control of your condition is simple; you only need to schedule an appointment with Hannum Vascular and follow Dr. Hannum’s prescribed advice. The disease generally progresses along the following phases:
Asymptomatic
Mild claudication (pains, cramps, and fatigue in the leg muscles)
Moderate claudication
Severe claudication
Pain even while at rest
Our Diagnostic Process Results in Effective Treatments
When you arrive for your appointment, we will begin diagnosing you. Whether you see a family physician or nurse practitioner, or your first call is to us, we will ask questions to determine your risk factors. After that, we will take a comprehensive medical and family history, perform an exam, and conduct tests. The examination focuses on areas impacted by PAD. For instance, we will check your pulse in each leg to ensure sufficient blood flow. Dr. Hannum will also note the color, temperature, and appearance of your legs and feet. Diagnostic tests might include a non-invasive procedure called ankle-brachial index (ABI), which is painless and compares blood pressure readings in your ankles with those in your arms.