Arterial occlusive diseases
Definition
Arterial occlusive disease (AOD) is a condition in which the arteries that carry blood to the legs and feet become narrowed or completely blocked by deposits.
These deposits consist mainly of fat, cholesterol and other substances that accumulate on the artery walls and obstruct blood flow. As a result, the affected tissues are not supplied with sufficient oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to serious complications in the long term.
Causes
The main cause of arterial occlusive disease is arteriosclerosis, in which plaques form in the arteries. These plaques are caused by a combination of an unhealthy diet, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and, above all, smoking. Smoking accelerates the build-up of plaques and damages the artery walls, which promotes the narrowing of the arteries. Genetic factors and age also play a role, with older people and those with a family history having a higher risk.
Symptoms
The symptoms of arterial occlusive disease develop gradually.
At the beginning, those affected often notice pain in their legs when walking, which disappears again when resting. This is known as “intermittent claudication” because sufferers often have to take breaks, as if they were looking at shop windows. As the disease progresses, the pain can also occur at rest, especially at night. Other symptoms include cold or bluish feet, numbness and poorly healing wounds on the legs and feet. These signs indicate that the blood supply is severely restricted
Treatment
The treatment of occlusive arterial disease aims to improve blood flow and prevent complications. Initially, lifestyle changes are recommended, such as giving up smoking, eating a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Medication may also be prescribed to improve blood flow and slow the progression of atherosclerosis. In advanced cases, minimally invasive procedures such as angioplasty, in which narrowed arteries are dilated, or surgical procedures such as bypass surgery are necessary to restore blood flow.
Prevention
A healthy lifestyle is the key:
Avoid smoking, make sure you eat a balanced, low-fat diet, maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly. Check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly and treat diabetes consistently if it is present. Early detection and regular medical examinations are particularly important in order to recognize and treat occlusive diseases in good time.
Dangers of non-treatment
Failure to treat it can lead to serious complications.
In the advanced stages, open wounds, so-called ulcers, can occur, which are difficult to heal. These wounds can become infected and, in the worst case, lead to tissue death (gangrene), which may necessitate amputation. In addition, occlusive diseases increase the risk of life-threatening events such as heart attacks and strokes, as the same vascular calcification that affects the arteries in the legs can also occur in the heart and brain arteries. It is therefore crucial to seek medical advice immediately at the first sign of occlusive arterial disease.
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