Sal’s Journey to Health: Conquering Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

When Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) disrupted his life, Sal faced debilitating symptoms that limited his mobility and threatened his overall well-being. However, Sal refused to let PAD define him and made a prompt booking with Dr. Azizi from Renew Vein & Vascular. Together, they explored treatment options and Sal was finally able to enjoy a higher quality of life.

 

Sal, a vibrant man in his fifties, had his whole life ahead of him. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). 

Despite the challenges he faced, Sal was adamant not to let PAD control his life. Through determination and effective treatment, he managed to regain control of his health and rediscover a renewed sense of vitality. 

In this blog post, Sal shares his personal story, highlighting the signs of PAD, the importance of timely treatment, and the transformative impact it had on his life. But first, let’s understand what the condition of PAD entails.

 

What is Peripheral Arterial Disease?

PAD is a condition that affects the arteries, those vital pathways that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to various parts of the body. The blood flow becomes obstructed due to the buildup of plaque within the arteries. You can read more about difference between Peripheral Arterial Disease vs. Venous Disease.

This narrowing and hardening of the arteries created a constant struggle for blood to reach its destination, leaving Sal with debilitating PAD symptoms. 

 

Sal’s Journey To Health

“My name is Sal, and just a few years ago, my health and vitality were greatly affected by Peripheral Arterial Disease. However, I managed to regain control of my health and embark on a new chapter filled with hope and well-being through:

• Perseverance, 
• Timely Treatment and
• Commitment.

When I think about  PAD, I see it as a formidable adversary that infiltrated my body, threatening to compromise my health and quality of life. It’s like a stealthy thief, gradually stealing away my ability to move freely and enjoy the simple pleasures of everyday activities.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Peripheral Arterial Disease 

I started noticing significant signs that led me to suspect something was amiss. First, I experienced intermittent claudication, which is characterized by pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs during physical activity. These symptoms would subside with rest, but they greatly limited my mobility. 

The pain, cramping, and fatigue were more than physical discomforts; they were reminders of the battles being waged within my body. Walking even short distances became a challenge, as my legs would protest with each step. 

Secondly, I began feeling numbness and weakness in my legs, especially while walking or climbing stairs. It was a sensation that gradually intensified over time. 

Numbness and weakness robbed me of my independence while the wounds on my legs took longer to heal. They became ulcers and a stark reminder of the compromised circulation and reduced ability to repair and regenerate.

But I refused to let PAD define me. I knew I had to confront this condition head-on and seek treatment. It was about prioritizing my well-being and improving my health. This is what prompted me to see Dr. Azizi from South Carolina, at Renew Vein & Vascular.

 

Causes of Peripheral Arterial Disease

Dr. Azizi took the time to listen attentively to my concerns and thoroughly explained the intricacies of PAD. He educated me about the underlying causes, the available treatment options, and the importance of proactive management. I never felt rushed or dismissed; instead, I felt comforted and well-received.

He taught me that the primary cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries. The plaque narrows and hardens the arteries, reducing blood flow to the legs and other extremities. Factors that contribute to the development of PAD include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle.

 

Diagnosis of Peripheral Arterial Disease

Dr. Azizi diagnosed and monitored me by using a variety of techniques:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), compares blood pressure in the arms and ankles to assess blood flow in the legs. 
• Doppler ultrasound is another non-invasive imaging technique that creates images of the blood flow in the arteries, aiding in the identification of blockages or narrowing. 
• In certain cases, Angiography may be performed to obtain a more detailed visualization of the affected arteries.

 

After-Diagnosis Journey

Once diagnosed with PAD, I learned that the best course of action involved a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to my specific needs. Lifestyle modifications played a crucial role in managing the condition. 

I made the decision to quit smoking and adopted a healthier diet, focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Regular exercise became an integral part of my routine, as it helped improve blood flow and overall cardiovascular health. 

Dr. Azizi tailored a treatment plan specific to my needs, combining lifestyle modifications, medications, and necessary interventions. As my PAD was more severe, I had an interventional procedure called angioplasty.

 

Angioplasty Treatment For Peripheral Arterial Disease

When I first learned about the treatment options for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), one particular procedure caught my attention: angioplasty. It offered hope and the promise of restoring proper blood flow to my legs, alleviating the debilitating symptoms that had plagued me for far too long. 

Today, as I reflect upon my journey, I can confidently say that undergoing angioplasty was a turning point in my battle against PAD. Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at widening narrowed or blocked arteries. 

The process involves the skilled hands of an interventional specialist who navigates a thin, flexible tube called a catheter through a small incision or puncture site. Guided by advanced imaging technology, the catheter is carefully threaded to the affected area, precisely targeting the blockage.

Dr. Azizi’s expertise, along with his comforting presence, made all the difference in my battle against PAD. With his guidance, I learned to navigate the challenges, embrace treatment options, and unlock a future filled with renewed health, vitality, and the freedom to live life to the fullest. If you suspect you may have PAD or are experiencing similar symptoms, I urge you to seek medical attention without delay. Remember, your health and well-being are worth fighting for.

 

Speak to Dr. Robert Azizi From South California in Bell Gardens, Buena Park & Korea Town.       

If you’re struggling with Peripheral Arterial Disease, come in for a consultation – you will be in the best hands with Dr. Robert Azizi. With years of experience treating vascular conditions, Dr. Azizi can help you achieve relief from your symptoms and get on with living your best lives. Book an appointment today.