Unlocking the truth on Iliac Artery Blockage

Who knew that weakness in the knees could literally be related to an affair of the heart? But it’s not romance we are talking about — it is a condition caused by blockages in the arteries. The leg pain is merely a clue to what it’s missing: love in the form of oxygen.

The aorta, the body’s main artery, originates in the heart. At the belly button, it branches out into two iliac arteries, which run through the pelvis and down the legs. In a healthy body, the iliac arteries deliver oxygen- and nutrientrich blood to the legs, calves, and toes, and our legs love the oxygen that is needed to keep them strong and fit. But when plaque, made up of cholesterol and fatty acids, builds up in the walls of our arteries, blood cannot easily flow and the arteries harden. This obstruction of the iliac artery is called aortoiliac occlusive disease, a type of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). What happens when the legs do not receive enough oxygen?

When limbs don’t get the blood or oxygen they need, the tissue below the blockage dies. This is known as gangrene and in the worst cases, sufferers of iliac artery blockages could lose a limb. But before that happens, there are clear symptoms to look for including weakness in the legs during activities and pain and cramping when at rest. If the legs seem pale and cool and a pulse is difficult to find, you should consider visiting ICE immediately for a careful examination.

Remember, blockage in any artery puts you at risk of heart attack or stroke. If you smoke, have diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure, are obese, or have a family history of heart disease, you may be at risk.

Catching iliac blockages early will help when it is time to treat the problem. Surgical bypass might be necessary but stents can also be successful. Give your artery health a little love so you can be weak in the knees for all the right reasons.

Recognizing the symptoms

Source: http://www.ehow.com/about_6698004_iliacartery-occlusion-symptoms.html#ixzz2O7YgSdSq

Case Study

Vive Vivian!

I was referred to Dr. Qamar when I began to experience heaviness in my legs while walking. I felt like I was carrying around bricks every day. I have also been a diabetic for the past twentyfive years. My first visit with Dr. Qamar went well and I was set up for diagnostic testing. The tests came back to show I had blockages in my legs. The blockages were a complication due, in part, to my diabetes. I could have completely lost the circulation in my legs, resulting in an amputation. The staff at ICE showed me my test results and pointed out the blockages so I could fully understand my condition and options. I have gone through a series of stents and have felt calm and cared for each time.

The ICE facility is wonderful and the nursing staff is the best. They have made my outpatient procedures and recovery as comfortable as possible. Dr. Qamar is a thorough doctor who cares and loves his patients; I put him on the top of the list. The staff is wonderful and I enjoy my appointments at ICE. I recommend Dr. Qamar to all my friends as they have seen me achieve life-changing results. Today, I feel 100 percent better. Not only is there a huge difference in my walking, I am even doing a water aerobics class three times a week! Aquasize is something I could have never considered before going to ICE. I am able to be active and I feel more energetic than I could have ever imagined!