Treatment:

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving circulation.

Medications may be required to control the disorder, including:

• Blood thinners
• Medications to enlarge (dilate) the affected artery or arteries
• Pain relievers

Surgery is usually performed only in severe cases if the condition is affecting your ability to work or pursue essential activities. Surgery may involve:

• Bypass surgery using a vein or artificial graft
• Removing the lining of the artery (endarterectomy)
• Repairing or replacing the vessel (grafting)

Some people with peripheral artery disease may need to have the limb removed (amputated). Rates of amputation are particularly high among African Americans and Hispanics with diabetes.

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

Self-care:

• Balance exercise with rest. Walk or do another activity to the point of pain and alternate it with rest periods. Over time, circulation improves as new, small (collateral) blood vessels form.
• Stop smoking. Smoking tightens 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 you also have diabetes. Wear shoes that fit properly. Pay attention to any cuts, scrapes, or injuries. The tissues heal slowly when there is decreased circulation and are prone to infection.
• If your cholesterol is high, eat a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet.

Expectations (prognosis):

You can usually control arteriosclerosis of the extremities with treatment. Surgery provides good symptom relief. Complications may require amputation of the affected leg or foot.

Complications:

• Arterial emboli
• Impotence
• Injury or infection of the feet and legs
• Open sores (ischemic ulcers) on the lower extremities
• Tissue death (gangrene) -- see gas gangrene
• Ulcers on the feet and toes

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of arteriosclerosis of the extremities.

Call your health care provider if you develop new symptoms, especially:

• New sores/ulcers
• Signs of infection (fever, redness, general ill feeling, or joint pain)