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Showing posts from May, 2025

Ankle Brachial Index Test: A non-invasive procedure to measure blood pressure

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Do your legs ache while walking? It might not just be tired muscles. Poor blood flow could be the real issue. One simple test that can help to detect it early is the Ankle Brachial Index Test . This non-invasive screening compares blood pressure in your ankles and arms to check for peripheral artery disease (PAD). Catching PAD early prevents serious complications. Let’s walk you through what this test is, how it works, and how Dr. Achintya Sharma can help you take charge of your vascular health. Why the Ankle Brachial Index Test Matters Millions of people suffer from poor circulation without knowing it. When arteries in your legs start to narrow, you might feel pain, tingling, or numbness. If left untreated, it can raise your risk of serious heart problems or even stroke. The good news? A simple and pain-free test called the ankle brachial index (ABI) can help spot these issues early. Ignoring symptoms or skipping routine vascular check-ups can be dangerous. The ABI test offers early ...

When Do You Need Bypass Surgery for Blocked Leg Arteries?

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  Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a growing concern across the globe, affecting millions, especially older adults and those with diabetes or heart disease. One of the most advanced and effective treatments for severe PAD is bypass surgery in the leg , also known as lower limb bypass surgery . But when is this procedure truly necessary? This article will help you understand when bypass surgery in the leg becomes essential, how it’s performed, who needs it, and what the latest research says about recovery and outcomes. What Is Bypass Surgery in the Leg? Bypass surgery in the leg is a surgical procedure used to reroute blood flow around a blocked artery in the lower limb. Surgeons use a healthy vein (usually from your own body) or a synthetic graft to create a new path for blood to reach the muscles and tissues beyond the blockage. The goal? Restore proper circulation , relieve pain, prevent limb loss, and improve mobility, especially in patients whose arteries are too narrowed o...

How Can Early Diagnosis of PAD Save Your Limbs? Effective PAD Treatments in 2025

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PAD is more than just poor circulation. It’s your body’s warning sign that arteries are narrowing due to plaque buildup, restricting blood flow, especially to your legs. This can cause pain, numbness, fatigue, and even serious complications like ulcers or limb loss. But what’s even more alarming? PAD often flies under the radar. PAD usually goes unnoticed until it causes serious problems like heart disease or stroke. That’s why early PAD treatment is essential not just to relieve symptoms, but to safeguard your life. How Is PAD Diagnosed and Treated?  Before jumping into treatment, let’s understand how PAD is diagnosed . The ABI (Ankle-Brachial Index) test is the most common way to check for PAD. It compares blood pressure in your ankle and arm. If the numbers don’t match, it shows poor blood flow to your legs. Doctors may also use ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs for a more detailed view. Once PAD is diagnosed, treatment usually starts with simple lifestyle changes: Quitting smokin...