What causes vascular occlusive disease?

What causes vascular occlusive disease?

The major risk factors for arterial occlusive disease are age, high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (a type of fat found in the blood), high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and a history of plaque build-up in the arteries. Men are more likely than women to develop arterial occlusive disease.

What is the major cause of vascular disease in the lower extremities?

The most common cause of PVD is atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque inside the artery wall. Plaque reduces the amount of blood flow to the limbs.

How is vascular disease of the leg treated?

These include cholesterol medications, blood pressure medications, and blood thinners. Invasive surgeries can be used to repair damaged veins and arteries. Vascular surgery involves grafting a blood vessel from elsewhere in the body to the area affected by the disease.

What is life expectancy with peripheral artery disease?

If left untreated, PAD can result in the need for a major amputation of the foot or leg. This is most concerning because the life expectancy for 60% of PAD amputee patients is only 2 to 5 years.

What are the stages of PAD?

There are four designated classifications, or stages, of PAD:

• Asymptomatic.
• Claudication.
• Critical limb ischemia.
• Acute limb ischemia.

Can you live a long life with peripheral artery disease?

You can still have a full, active lifestyle with peripheral artery disease, or PAD. The condition happens when plaque builds up in your arteries. This makes it harder for your arms, legs, head, and organs to get enough blood. Although it’s serious and can sometimes be painful, there are lots of ways to slow it down.

Does PAD make walking difficult?

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a condition where the arteries in the legs are severely damaged. When you have PAD, walking can be painful. So you may start to walk less. Walking less makes your leg muscles weaker.