Peripheral Artery Disease Specialist
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Memphis Vein Center
Kishore K. Arcot , MD, FACC, FSCAI, FSVM, RPVI
Cardiology & Vascular Medicine located in Memphis, TN
About 8.5 million Americans live with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Although peripheral artery disease is common, when left untreated it increases your risk of serious health problems. At Memphis Vein Center in Memphis, Tennessee, board-certified cardiologist Kishore Arcot, MD, FACC, FSCAI, FSVM, RPVI, and the caring team offer safe and effective treatments for peripheral artery disease. To schedule an appointment, call or book online today.
Peripheral Artery Disease Q & A
What is peripheral artery disease?
Peripheral artery disease is a chronic condition that causes your arteries to narrow. Over time, this prevents adequate blood flow from reaching your arms and legs.
In its early stages of development, peripheral artery disease causes leg cramps. As the condition gets worse, it may reduce blood flow to your heart and brain. This increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke and premature death.
What are the symptoms of peripheral artery disease?
Telltale signs of peripheral artery disease include:
- Painful leg and hip cramps
- Leg numbness or weakness
- A weak pulse in your lower extremities
- Shiny skin on your legs
- Hair loss on your feet and legs
- Leg pain
As peripheral artery disease gets worse, you might also develop slow-healing wounds or venous ulcers. Without prompt treatment, venous ulcers can become infected, causing gangrene and, in severe cases, the need for limb salvage.
Who is at risk of peripheral artery disease?
Peripheral artery disease affects people of all races and genders. Several factors increase your risk, including using tobacco, being overweight, and having diabetes. You’re also more likely to experience peripheral artery disease if you're 50 or older or have a family history of the condition.
How is peripheral artery disease diagnosed?
To diagnose peripheral artery disease, Dr. Arcot conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms. Next, he conducts an ankle-brachial index (ABI) test.
ABI measures the blood pressure in your ankle and compares it with the blood pressure in your arm. It’s a quick and effective way to diagnose peripheral artery disease.
If these measures don’t provide enough information, Dr. Arcot might order an ultrasound, blood tests, or angiography. An ultrasound uses soundwaves to evaluate the circulation of blood through your blood vessels. An angiography allows Dr. Arcot to view blood flow through your arteries.
How is peripheral artery disease treated?
At Memphis Vein Center, Dr. Arcot and the team treat peripheral artery disease using a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medications.
Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to manage uncomfortable symptoms like leg cramping and stop the progression of atherosclerosis. Dr. Arcot develops a custom care plan based on your unique health history and goals for treatment. Usually, this includes quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly.
Dr. Arcot might also prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications, high blood pressure medications, or medications to prevent blood clots. To achieve the best possible results, make sure to attend all follow-up appointments, and take your medications as prescribed.
If you’re concerned about your risk of peripheral artery disease, schedule an appointment at Memphis Vein Center. Call or book online today.
We are offering virtual visits for Varicose Veins. Call us to book your appointment today.
