Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a serious vascular condition that leads to more complications like heart attack and is affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when build-up plaque blocks arteries in the legs and stops the blood flow. If PAD is not treated on time, it leads to serious complications such as amputation or heart attack.
However, with the right treatment and early intervention using the TM Flow system, PAD can be managed effectively. Other than this, the key to managing PAD lies in consulting the right healthcare professional. But what kind of doctor treats PAD, and how to choose them? This blog has the answers!
What is PAD?
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a vascular disorder where the legs do not get proper blood supply because of the obstruction in arteries that travel towards the legs. This obstruction is caused by buildup plague, primarily due to increased cholesterol levels. This causes symptoms mainly in the legs, such as:
Pain or cramping
Numbness
Coldness or pale skin
Slow healing wounds
Shiny skin
What Kind of Doctor Treats PAD
When dealing with PAD, the right kind of doctor matters. The healthcare professionals who treat PAD specialize in the following areas:
1. Vascular Specialists
Vascular surgeons diagnose and treat conditions related to blood vessels, including PAD. They focus on managing the circulatory system and performing surgeries or minimally invasive procedures to improve blood flow. They are usually preferred for angioplasty or stent placement to restore leg circulation.
2. Cardiologists
Cardiologists specialize in heart health and are involved in treating PAD when it is related to heart disease. They deal with issues like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors of PAD. Cardiologists are not usually the first choice for PAD treatment, but they play a key role in the care of PAD patients who also have heart-related issues.
3. Interventional Radiologists
Interventional radiologists perform minimally invasive procedures for vascular conditions, including PAD. They use small tools to open blocked arteries or place stents throughout the body. These types of procedures are less invasive and are an excellent option for people who do not want open surgery.
4. Primary Care Physicians
Your primary care physician (PCP) is usually the first doctor you will see if you suspect you have PAD. They check symptoms, give you some basic treatments, and if they notice severity, they refer you to a PAD specialist. PCPs are also helpful in managing diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol, which can become the reason for PAD.
What is the Role of a Peripheral Artery Disease Specialist?
A PAD specialist, typically a vascular surgeon or interventional radiologist, will do a complete evaluation to diagnose PAD. He will then recommend the most appropriate treatment options for peripheral artery disease. Depending on the severity, treatment options may include lifestyle changes (e.g., exercise and diet), medication (e.g., blood thinners or cholesterol-lowering drugs), or invasive procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery.
How to Choose the Best Doctor for PAD Treatment
Choosing the right doctor to treat PAD can be one by looking at these factors:
A doctor with expertise in vascular diseases is preferred.
Ask your PCP for a recommendation.
The doctor must be board-certified.
Check if the doctor accepts your insurance.
PAD Early Diagnosis with TM Flow Test
Looking for the right doctor or PAD specialist will be of no use if you can not detect PAD early. As the disease progresses, it leads to complications that can not be reversed. To detect it early, you can go for a TM Flow test. This test is conducted by a TM Flow machine, which utilizes ABI technology to determine differences in blood flow. This indicates the risk of getting PAD, and further testing reveals PAD at an early stage.
Conclusion
PAD requires timely intervention before it becomes severe. The right test can detect it early, and the right specialist can improve its management. Whether you see a vascular surgeon, cardiologist, or interventional radiologist, it is crucial to choose a doctor who is experienced and can provide a comprehensive treatment plan.
FAQs
Should I see a cardiologist for PAD?
See cardiologists if you have PAD along with heart-related issues; otherwise, a vascular specialist is preferred.
What consultants to visit if you have PAD?
For consultancy related to PAD itself, go to a vascular specialist however, for lifestyle modifications, you can go to a podiatrist or even a nutritionist.
Can PAD be detected with ECG?
Tests like the ABI or ultrasound are more effective for diagnosing PAD.
Can a GP diagnose PAD?
A GP can only suspect PAD based on symptoms.
How can I detect PAD early?
PAD can be detected early through a TM Flow test that uses ABI technology.
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