Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a severe condition that affects the blood vessels that supply your legs and feet. If left untreated, PAD can lead to claudication (a painful cramping sensation in the thighs or calves due to a lack of oxygen), amputation, and death.
According to reports, peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common condition that affects about 8.5 million adults in the United States.
In Las Vegas, NV, PAD is a growing problem. According to reports, the prevalence of PAD was 4.8% in 2013-2014. This was reportedly higher than the national average of 3.7%. Peripheral arterial disease lab in Las Vegas, NV, has been able to help patients with this condition by finding and diagnosing it early.
However, there are some positive trends in Las Vegas regarding PAD. The number of people diagnosed with PAD with the timely diagnosis at any peripheral arterial disease lab in Las Vegas, NV, has declined over the past few years.
The challenges of testing for peripheral arterial disease
One popular challenge in testing for PAD is that the symptoms can vary from person to person. This indeed means that there is not one definitive test for the condition. Instead, doctors must use a combination of tests to make a diagnosis.
The importance of early detection
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a common yet often underdiagnosed condition that can lead to serious health complications. Symptoms of PAD include leg pain or cramping when walking or exercising (claudication), non-healing wounds on the feet or the legs, and changes in the color and temperature of the skin on the legs or feet.
While PAD is most prevalent in adults over 50, it can occur at any age. However, early detection is key to managing the condition and preventing serious health complications.
Several tests can diagnose PAD, including an ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, which measures the blood pressure in your ankles and immediately compares it to blood pressure in the arms. A stress test may also be performed, during which a person walks on a treadmill while heart rate and blood pressure are monitored.
If you suspect you may have PAD, talk to your doctor about getting tested. Early detection and treatment can help prevent serious health complications down the road.
What are peripheral arterial disease tests available?
Doppler ultrasound: This test generally uses sound waves to evaluate blood flow through your arteries.
CT angiography: This test uses X-rays and computer imaging to create detailed pictures of your arteries.
MRI angiography: This test uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to create detailed pictures of your arteries.
Arteriogram: This test involves injecting dye into your arteries so they can be seen more clearly on X-ray images.
What are the causes and symptoms of peripheral arterial disease?
Peripheral arterial disease is when the arteries in your limbs narrow, making it difficult for blood to flow to your extremities. This can cause various symptoms, from pain and cramping in your legs to ulcers on your feet or toes.
Several factors can contribute to peripheral arterial disease, including smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. If you currently have any of these risk factors, you must talk to your doctor about how to reduce your risk of developing peripheral arterial disease.
Several treatment options are available if you develop peripheral arterial disease symptoms. These include lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and exercising regularly, medications, and, in some cases, surgery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, peripheral arterial disease labs are improving the health of residents by providing them with access to quality care and resources. These labs are making a difference in the lives of those suffering from this debilitating condition and helping improve the community’s overall health.
