Ischemic lower limb disease

Where and how does ICDK disease manifest itself?

Ischaemic lower limb disease mainly affects the large arteries of the lower limbs - most commonly the femoral and calf arteries. It is most noticeable when walking, when the sufferer experiences pain, cramps or uncomfortable tension in the calves, thighs or buttocks.

Visit our angiology department (Prague). The examination can detect the disease before it fully develops. Using simple methods such as ankle brachial index (ABI) measurements, Doppler ultrasound or angiography, the doctor can accurately determine the extent of blood vessel involvement. Early diagnosis increases the chance of effective therapy and significantly slows the progression of the disease.

ICHDK: symptoms and treatment

Symptoms may be subtle at first but worsen over time:

• Pain in the lower legs when walking that disappears at rest
• Feeling cold, pale or bluish discoloration of the legs
• Slowed healing of wounds on the legs and feet
• Weak or absent pulse in the legs
• Skin changes - thinning, shininess, hair loss
• In advanced stages, even pain at rest or necrosis (tissue death)

Triggers and risk factors for coronary artery disease of the lower limbs

Like ischaemic heart disease, ICDK has a close relationship to the health of blood vessels. Major risk factors include:

• Smoking is a major risk factor
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Age over 50
• Genetic predisposition
• Lack of exercise

Ischemic disease of the lower limbs: treatment

Treatment of ischemic disease of the lower extremities is complex and depends on the stage of the disease. If you are suffering from ICHDK, the treatment may look as follows.

• Lifestyle changes - no smoking, healthy diet, regular exercise
• Pharmacotherapy - blood thinners, cholesterol lowering, blood pressure lowering
• Rehabilitation walking - guided walking training can improve blood flow
• Endovascular interventions - angioplasty, stent insertion
• Surgical solutions - bypass surgery of affected arteries
• Topical skin and wound care

Consequences of untreated lower limb ischaemic disease

If the disease is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications:

• Chronic pain and restricted movement
• Formation of non-healing ulcers
• Tissue death (gangrene)
• Risk of amputation of the affected limb
• Increased risk of heart attack and stroke

That's why it's crucial to see a doctor at the first sign of trouble. Don't wait until the pain limits your life. The earlier the disease is caught, the better the chance of successful treatment without permanent consequences.