Arteriosclerosis of the Extremities

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Treatment

Treatment focuses on the relief of symptoms and self-care to improve circulation.

Medications may be required to control the disorder, including pain relievers, blood thinners, and medications to enlarge or dilate the affected artery(ies)

Surgery is usually performed only on severe cases where the ability to work or pursue essential activities is affected. Surgery may consist of removing the lining of the artery (endarterectomy), or repairing or replacing the vessel (grafting); most commonly, bypass surgery is performed, using a vein or synthetic graft.

Alternatives to surgery may include treatments such as balloon angioplasty (a similar technique to that used to open the coronary arteries, but performed on the blood vessels of the affected extremity), sometimes followed by stent implantation, laser treatment, or other treatments.

Self-care:
Exercise must be balanced with rest. Walking or other activity, performed to the point of pain and alternated with rest periods, is often recommended. Over time, circulation improves because of the development of collateral (new, small) blood vessels.

Stop smoking! Smoking constricts arteries, decreases the blood's ability to carry oxygen and increases the risk of forming clots (thrombi and emboli).

Foot care is particularly important if diabetes is also present. Wear shoes that fit properly. Pay attention to any cuts, scrapes or injury -- the tissues heal slowly when there is decreased circulation and are prone to infection.

If cholesterol is high, change the diet to a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet.

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