Ask The Experts
I have PAD and have had flares every three months for about 1 year. All of the Hematology tests have come back normal. I have clotting in my left leg only. What is the next step for answers?
Thank you for contacting IPFH. We do not diagnose or make treatment recommendations on line. Presumably you have been formally diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). We would suggest that you contact either your primary care physician, or the physician who diagnosed you with PAD, and request a formal treatment plan. Typically treatment involves lifestyle changes, including smoking cessation (if you smoke), reducing salt intake to lower high blood pressure, reducing intake of foods that are high in fat and cholesterol, maintaining a healthy weight, and increasing activity levels. Controlling blood sugar levels also is very important. If these changes are not sufficient to lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, a physician may prescribe one or more medications aimed at treating those and other conditions that can cause PAD. In serious cases, surgery or the placement of a stent may be required. You can learn more about the condition on our peripheral arterial disease foot conditions page. We hope you will contact your primary care physician or your diagnosing physician at your earliest opportunity and get on a good treatment plan, and we wish you the best.