Do cardiologists treat peripheral artery disease?

Do cardiologists treat peripheral artery disease?

There are many reasons why cardiologists should care about PAD in their cardiac patients but unfortunately, cardiologists tend to focus upon atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries and PAD is inadequately addressed in most cardiology training programmes.

Does a vascular surgeon treat PAD?

When someone is diagnosed with or suspected of having PAD, they are typically referred to a vascular surgeon or vascular specialist. Vascular surgeons will often prescribe medications and lifestyle changes for PAD patients.

Who performs peripheral vascular procedures?

A vascular surgeon is able to do every kind of procedure. Some specialists specialize in one or two kinds of vascular interventions, so their patients tend to get those treatments. Vascular surgeons are trained in everything: open, complicated surgery and in minimally invasive, endovascular procedures.

Does PAD require surgery?

Surgery for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Surgery is another option for restoring blood flow to your legs, or in some cases arms. If a lengthy portion of an artery becomes narrowed – or if a blood vessel is severely blocked, then your doctor may recommend bypass surgery.

Should I see a cardiologist for PAD?

This is a doctor who specializes in treating blood vessel diseases and conditions. A cardiologist may also be involved in treating people who have PAD. Cardiologists treat heart problems, such as CHD and heart attack, which often affect people who have PAD.

Do you elevate legs with PAD?

Positioning: It is recommended that people do not cross their legs, which may interfere with blood flow. Some people manage swelling by elevating their feet at rest. You should elevate your feet but not above the heart level.

When should I see a vascular specialist?

Often, patients unexpectedly need a vascular surgeon when they learn they have a vascular condition that could cause severe problems. If you are referred to a vascular surgeon, it’s likely your condition needs further diagnosis and a treatment plan.

How do you unblock your arteries in your legs?

Angioplasty is a procedure to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels that supply blood to your legs. Fatty deposits can build up inside the arteries and block blood flow. A stent is a small, metal mesh tube that keeps the artery open. Angioplasty and stent placement are two ways to open blocked peripheral arteries.

What kind of Doctor can diagnose pad?

A cardiologist may also be involved in the diagnosis process. Cardiologists mainly focus on problems with the heart, like heart disease or heart attack, which can occur as a result of untreated PAD.

What kind of Doctor do you see for peripheral artery disease?

Primary care doctors, such as internists and family doctors, may treat people who have mild P.A.D. For more advanced P.A.D., a vascular specialist may be involved. This is a doctor who specializes in treating blood vessel diseases and conditions. Whether you have any risk factors for P.A.D.

Should I get tested for peripheral artery disease (PAD)?

If you smoke or have high blood pressure or other risk factors for PAD, even without symptoms, ask your doctor about getting tested. It is important to be aware that if you have lower extremity PAD, you may also have plaque buildup in other arteries leading to and from your heart and brain, putting you at higher risk of stroke or heart attack.

When should I see a vascular specialist for blood vessel disease?

However, if the condition is more severe, your doctor may refer you to a vascular specialist. Vascular specialists are experienced in treating many blood vessel conditions.