Arterial Insufficiency

What are the symptoms of arterial insufficiency?

Symptoms of arterial insufficiency vary depending on where your arteries are clogged or blocked. You won’t always have symptoms of arterial insufficiency, but when you do, you might experience:  

• Chest pain (angina) or heart attack due to blockage in heart arteries
• Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke due to blockage in brain arteries
• Leg cramping when you walk due to clogs in the leg arteries
• Pain after you eat due to clogs in the arteries in your belly

Obviously, many of these symptoms require emergency care. But, even if you have milder symptoms, it’s important to get help right away to prevent dire consequences. 

If you have high cholesterol, you’re at greater risk of developing arterial insufficiency. Dr. Tun may recommend screenings to evaluate your risk and prevent a life-threatening incident.

What causes arterial insufficiency?

A common cause of arterial insufficiency is atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. When fatty substances, called plaque, build up along artery walls, they narrow and stiffen, resulting in restrictions in blood flow. A blood clot can also halt the flow of blood in your arteries.

Peripheral artery disease is diagnosed when arterial insufficiency, or narrowed arteries, reduces blood flow to your legs and sometimes your arms. You get leg pain, numbness, slow-healing wounds, and less hair growth.

How do you treat arterial insufficiency?

A first step in treating arterial insufficiency involves changes to your lifestyle. Dr. Tun recommends you quit using tobacco, start exercising and eat more healthfully. He can provide supplements and food recommendations to help you get started. 

In some people, medications may also be necessary to help blood flow. These include glucose-control medications, anti-clotting medicines, and blood thinners. 

If medications and lifestyle changes aren’t enough to clear up your arteries, Dr. Tun can refer you to a trusted cardiologist colleague to place stents or bypass surgery to facilitate blood flow. 

Call the office of Jeffery Tun, MD, to set up an appointment to learn about your risk of arterial insufficiency and possible treatments. Alternatively, use this website to reach out online.