Diabetes and Peripheral Artery Disease

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Managing diabetes protects your long-term vascular health. High blood sugar gradually damages blood vessels, particularly in the legs and feet. This damage often occurs silently, developing into peripheral artery disease (PAD), a progressive vascular condition that reduces blood flow and increases amputation risk. Premier Health Group specializes in early detection and limb preservation, providing the expert intervention needed to protect your mobility.

The Link Between Diabetes and Vascular Health

Excess blood glucose impacts circulation in three key ways:

  • Vessel integrity: High sugar levels weaken the delicate arterial lining.
  • Plaque accumulation: Arteries narrow as fatty plaque builds up and hardens, which is known as atherosclerosis.
  • Reduced circulation: It is difficult for oxygen-rich blood to reach the legs and feet.

Diabetic neuropathy, which is due to nerve damage, masks pain signals. Without natural alerts, PAD may progress undiagnosed until a non-healing wound or infection develops. Every diabetic patient with a foot wound needs a vascular evaluation.

Recognizing PAD Symptoms in People with Diabetes

Diabetes symptoms often overlap with common symptoms of PAD, affecting how you feel pain. It’s important to monitor your legs and feet for:

  • Claudication: This symptom presents as pain, cramping or heaviness in the legs while walking that can be eased by rest.
  • Skin and nail changes: Shiny skin on the legs, hair loss on the feet or thickened toenails can be a symptom of PAD.
  • Temperature differences: One foot feeling noticeably colder than the other might indicate PAD.
  • Non-healing wounds: PAD symptoms can include sores, ulcers or infections on feet or toes that are slow to heal.

Diabetes amplifies other cardiovascular risk factors. You can protect your tissue health by catching vascular changes early.

Diagnostic Excellence With Premier Endovascular

We use state-of-the-art technology in our outpatient facility to identify circulation concerns early. Our noninvasive tests include: 

  • Ankle-brachial index (ABI): This test is a quick and painless comparison of ankle and arm blood pressure.
  • Duplex ultrasound: Advanced imaging helps to visualize blood flow and locate blockages.
  • Handheld Doppler: Utilized in a physical examination.

With our comprehensive suite of on-site diagnostic services, we’ll make your diagnostic care as seamless and convenient as possible.

Advanced PAD Treatments for Diabetics

Our approach to peripheral artery disease centers on limb preservation. We use minimally invasive techniques to restore healthy blood flow and help prevent amputation. Our specialists perform multiple amputation prevention procedures with care and precision, including:

  • Angioplasty: This procedure includes using a specialized balloon to gently reopen narrowed arteries and compress plaque against the vessel walls.
  • Stenting: Inserting a stent entails placing a small mesh tube into an artery to help keep it open and ensure blood continues to flow freely.
  • Atherectomy: During this procedure, we use advanced tools to remove calcified plaque buildup.
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Why Choose Premier Endovascular?

Premier Health Group delivers world-class vascular expertise directly to the NJ and NY metro areas. Our commitment to patient-centered care is backed by:

  • Proven expertise: Our team of board-certified physicians are internationally recognized for advanced limb preservation procedures.
  • Comprehensive services: From your initial screening through treatment and follow-up, receive all your vascular care under one roof.
  • Bilingual support: We offer services in both English and Spanish for clear communication and patient comfort.
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Protect Your Vascular Health Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of PAD, schedule a consultation with Premier Health Group today. You can also call us at 973-947-6586 to learn more about our specialized PAD treatments for diabetics. Our experts are ready to provide you with the care you deserve.