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Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs. It is most commonly caused by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) and can lead to leg pain, poor circulation, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. PAD is often underdiagnosed and can be a sign of more serious cardiovascular disease.
At Desert Cardiovascular Consultants, board-certified cardiovascular specialist Zia Khan, MD, FACC, FSCAI, and the team provide advanced evaluation and peripheral artery disease treatment in Las Vegas, NV. Using modern vascular imaging and minimally invasive techniques, they diagnose circulation issues and help restore healthy blood flow. Early evaluation can help prevent serious complications. Schedule your PAD screening today.
If you have leg pain, numbness, cold feet, or symptoms of poor circulation, contact Desert Cardiovascular Consultants today to schedule a PAD evaluation in Las Vegas.
What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?
PAD is a circulatory condition caused by plaque buildup in the arteries, which reduces blood flow to the legs and extremities.
PAD may cause:
- Leg pain while walking
- Cramping in the calves, thighs, or hips
- Cold feet or lower legs
- Numbness or weakness
- Slow-healing wounds
- Skin color changes
Early diagnosis can help reduce symptoms and lower the risk of complications.
As a leading PAD specialist in Las Vegas, Dr. Khan focuses on early detection and targeted treatment to improve long-term vascular health.
What Are the Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease?
The most common symptom of peripheral artery disease is leg pain or cramping while walking that improves with rest.
Other PAD symptoms may include:
- Pain in the calves, thighs, or hips
- Coldness in one or both lower legs or feet
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Skin discoloration
- Hair loss on the legs
- Slow nail growth
- Non-healing sores or ulcers on the feet or legs
PAD symptoms often develop gradually and may be mistaken for normal aging or muscle fatigue. If you notice these symptoms, a vascular specialist in Las Vegas can evaluate your circulation and determine the cause.
What Causes Peripheral Artery Disease?
PAD is usually caused by plaque buildup in the arteries. This plaque is made of fat, cholesterol, and other substances that stick to the artery walls. Over time, the arteries narrow and blood flow decreases.
Common PAD risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Family history of vascular disease
- Older age
People with PAD may also have a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
How is PAD Diagnosed?
Peripheral artery disease is diagnosed using a physical exam, symptom review, and vascular testing that measures blood flow in the legs.
At Desert Cardiovascular Consultants in Las Vegas, these tests help identify blockages, assess blood flow, and guide the most appropriate treatment plan.
Diagnostic testing may include:
- Ankle-brachial index (ABI): compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm
- Duplex ultrasound: shows blood flow and possible blockages
- CT angiography (CTA): provides detailed images of the arteries
Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment Options in Las Vegas
Peripheral artery disease is treated with lifestyle changes, medication, and minimally invasive procedures to improve blood flow. At our Las Vegas office, PAD treatment is tailored to the severity of your condition and overall health.. The goal is to improve blood flow, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications.
Lifestyle & Medical Management
For early-stage PAD, treatment may include:
- Supervised exercise therapy
- Smoking cessation support
- Blood pressure and cholesterol management
- Medications to improve circulation and reduce clot risk
Minimally Invasive PAD Procedures
For more advanced PAD, minimally invasive vascular procedures may be recommended, including:
- Peripheral Angioplasty: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a balloon catheter to open narrowed arteries and restore blood flow.
- Arterial Stenting: A small mesh stent is placed to keep the artery open and prevent future blockages.
- Advanced Plaque Reduction Techniques: Specialized tools may be used to reduce or remove plaque buildup and restore circulation.
These procedures are typically performed through small puncture sites and are designed to support faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI): Advanced PAD
Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is a severe form of peripheral artery disease that causes significantly reduced blood flow to the legs or feet.
Symptoms of CLI may include:
- Severe leg pain at rest
- Pain that worsens at night
- Non-healing wounds or ulcers
- Skin breakdown or tissue damage
Prompt evaluation and treatment are essential to help prevent serious complications, including limb loss.
Why Choose Desert Cardiovascular Consultants?
Desert Cardiovascular Consultants provide coordinated cardiac and vascular care in one location, helping streamline care and improve the patient experience. Patients benefit from personalized care plans designed to address both vascular health and overall cardiovascular risk.
- Board-certified interventional cardiologist
- Advanced in-office diagnostic testing
- Minimally invasive treatment options
- Advanced interventional and imaging technology
- Comprehensive, all-in-one cardiovascular care
Schedule PAD Treatment in Las Vegas
Early diagnosis and treatment of PAD can improve mobility, reduce pain, and lower your risk of serious complications. Call Desert Cardiovascular Consultants today or request an appointment online to schedule your PAD evaluation in Las Vegas.