The Benefits of Statins as Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment

by USA Vascular Center YOU CAN LOWER YOUR RISK FOR PAD

Statins are a type of medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Statins, however, are a highly effective treatment choice for conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD treatments vary, with research showing great results from spinal fracture treatment and angioplasty. But surgical treatments like these are not only invasive but often expensive too. As far as peripheral artery disease treatment goes, statins are one of the best.

Studies have shown that patients suffering from advanced peripheral artery disease experienced marked improvements when on statins. In fact, statins as PAD treatment have had proven effects on frequency of strokes, heart attacks, and fatality rates. USA Vascular Centers is known for its innovative treatments and visionary outlook. With centers all over the country, you can count on us to treat your condition effectively. Today we look at statins, how they have benefited PAD patients, and how statins work as peripheral artery disease treatment.

Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease

The primary symptom of peripheral artery disease is restricted blood flow to your extremities (arms and legs) and vital organs (often the heart). Due to poor diet, lack of exercise, or genetic reasons, blood flow becomes restricted. Over time, cholesterol and plaque around the arterial walls lead to a narrowing of the arteries throughout the body. This can be particularly hazardous in the coronary arteries which direct blood to and from the heart. You are likely to experience claudication, as well as pain and weakness in the affected limbs. PAD usually occurs in the legs, around the calves or ankles, and strenuous activity can increase pain. Additionally, PAD is a contributing factor to risks of coronary artery disease (CAD). But, like CAD, medications have shown promising results as PAD treatment.

Improving PAD Symptoms with Statins

Statins are a non-invasive PAD treatment available at reasonable cost. They work by preventing cholesterol and plaque from accumulating in the arteries. Anticlotting medication stops blood clots from forming, while additional medication, such as ACE inhibitors and ARBs, regulate your blood pressure. It can be difficult enough having a heart condition, but managing it is just as difficult. Statins are a simple and effective method with which patients can treat themselves at home. Medical studies have proven that fatality rates and amputation rates dropped by 50% for patients on statins. This shows that medical therapy, as opposed to invasive surgical treatment, is just as effective at treating vascular conditions.

When Statins Aren’t Appropriate

You can prevent PAD-related complications such as heart attacks and strokes by making heart-smart lifestyle choices. Ensuring you get sufficient physical exercise while adopting a heart-healthy diet, can have outstanding effects on your health. Similarly, we recommend you quit smoking immediately as continuing will only exacerbate any present conditions such as PAD. In severe cases, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Depending on the severity of your condition, statins may not be the PAD treatment for you. Sometimes, surgical procedures, while invasive, are the required treatment for peripheral artery disease. Bypass grafting, angioplasty, and atherectomy are all common types of surgical PAD treatment for you and your doctor to consider. At USA Vascular centers, you can always rely on us for expert advice about peripheral artery disease treatment.