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PATHOLOGY PERSPECTIVES Signs that medical professionals may observe in a person with PAD include a pulse that is decreased or even absent in the affected ankle; a characteristic sound called a bruit that is heard through a stethoscope over the clogged artery; very slow wound healing; hair loss on the affected leg; and thickened toe nails along with shiny, thinned skin. These skin and nail changes are related to severely challenged circulation. In very extreme and advanced cases, the skin may completely degenerate and form ulcers that don't heal or that heal so slowly they are vulnerable to infection and gangrene. This progression is more rare than it used to be, because treatment options for PAD are much more effective than they were even a decade ago. COMPLICATIONS Untreated peripheral artery disease can have serious consequences. Pain that had been triggered only during exercise can progress to be a constant problem. Skin that is starved of nutrition can develop non- healing ulcers that are an invitation to infection and gangrene: the only safe option in this case is amputation of the affected leg. And while this discussion has focused on PAD in the lower extremity, the same problem can also develop in the renal arteries, leading to two very complicated conditions called renal artery stenosis and renovascular hypertension. Both of these conditions create a vicious circle with hypertension: obstruction of the renal artery changes kidney function, and they secrete Steamy Wonder Spa™ & The Super 7 Organic Treatments Increase your array of services while your clients enjoy the benefits. hormones that consequently raise blood pressure, which puts more force on the damaged arteries. TREATMENT OPTIONS Treatment options for PAD have two main goals: to limit symptoms and to prevent progression to the more serious consequences of the condition. This typically begins with specifi c attention to managing diabetes and quitting smoking. Medications may include anti-platelet drugs to reduce clotting, aggressive hypertension management drugs, and some drugs that can delay the onset of intermittent claudication symptoms so that exercise is more comfortable. Careful and often supervised exercise—this is exercise done in a medical facility with sensors to track cardiovascular Blissful Rose Sore Joint & Muscle Relaxing Royal Lavendar Pain Relief Weight Loss Detoxification Sports Massage Lymphatic Drainage Cellulite Management Tropical Cool Down Weight Loss & Cellulite Call Toll Free: 800-417-6789 or Visit The Website: www.steamywonder.com 100 massage & bodywork september/october 2010 Special Introductory offer and Free DVD CALL NOW! Ayurvedic Garshana Purification & Maximum Detox