Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
PAD occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, typically the legs.
- Symptoms: Leg pain during walking, cramping, numbness, slow wound healing in legs or feet
- Treatment: Lifestyle changes, medications, angioplasty, or surgery.
Circulation Problems
Circulation problems refer to issues with blood flow, often caused by narrowing of arteries or veins.
- Symptoms: Cold hands or feet, numbness, tingling, swelling, fatigue
- Treatment: Improving circulation through exercise, medications, or surgery.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins visible under the skin, typically in the legs.
- Symptoms: Bulging veins, aching, swelling, itching, burning sensation
- Treatment: Compression stockings, sclerotherapy, or vein removal surgery.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Anticoagulation Therapy
DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs, and can lead to serious complications if untreated.
- Symptoms: Swelling in one leg, pain or tenderness, warm skin, redness
- Treatment: Anticoagulation (blood thinners) to prevent clot growth and breaking off.
Venous Ulcers / Non-healing Wound or Leg Ulcer
Venous ulcers are open sores on the lower legs caused by poor blood circulation due to damaged veins.
- Symptoms: Swollen legs, darkened or discolored skin around the ulcer, itching, pain, heavy feeling in the legs, slow-healing wounds
- Treatment: Compression therapy, wound care, medications, and in severe cases, surgery to improve blood flow.
