Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a severe condition that may result in complications if left unattended. So, if you have PAD symptoms such as severe pain, tingling sensations, or cramps in your lower legs, it is best to consult a doctor immediately.

If you have doubts about preparing yourself for the consultation, the article will help you get started.

What Is peripheral artery disease (PAD)?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a blood circulation disorder in which the blood vessels (arteries) become narrow or blocked. The blockage is mainly caused by plaque (cholesterol and fatty materials) that clogs the blood vessels. Many people with PAD have mild or no symptoms, while others experience leg pain while walking.

The first step is visiting your family doctor, who will refer you to the PAD specialist (vascular surgeon). The initial consultation with the specialist is to determine the various treatment options available and which suits you the best.

Since the appointment can be brief and there will be plenty of questions going across your mind. It is a good idea to arrive well prepared during the consultation.

Here’s some information that will help you to prepare for the appointment.

Preparing yourself for PAD consultation?

Before visiting the specialist following are some pointers that will help you to be prepared before the appointment:

1. What can you do?

You should have the following information handy before visiting the doctor:

• Write down any symptoms that you are experiencing
• Make a list of all the medications (prescription and non-prescription)
• A Complete family history of diseases
• List of any past medical conditions
• List of tests performed (blood test, angiograms, MRI, ultrasounds, CT scan – if test are recent, it will save time and cost)

2. What questions can you ask the specialist?

Here are a few common questions to talk about:

• What is the likely cause of symptoms?
• What kind of test do I need to undergo? Preparation that needs to be done for these tests?
• Is there a cure for PAD?
• What are the treatment options available, and which one would suit me?
• What are the expected side effects that I should expect from the treatment?
• What things do I need to do that might help me?
• I have other health conditions; how do I manage these conditions together?
• Is any patient information sheet available that I can take home?

You can ask additional questions if you do not understand.

3. What questions to expect from the specialist?

The doctor will likely take your medical history and examine you physically. Moreover, the doctor may ask some questions listed below:

• Are the symptoms that you are experiencing continuous or occasional?
• When did you first encounter the symptoms?
• What symptoms are you experiencing? How severe are the symptoms?
• Do the symptoms get worse after physical exertion? Do the symptoms get better when you rest?
• Do you consume tobacco in any form? How often (if you consume)?
• How is your lifestyle (active or sedentary)?
• Any going or past medical illness?
• What are your eating habits?

4. What can you do in the meantime?

If you are consuming tobacco, you should quit it. Tobacco consumption not only worsens your PAD but may also cause cancer. Eat healthy foods, try to consume more fruits and vegetables in your diet. Cut down on junk food items.