Vaatlijden
Vaatlijden, also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD) or atherosclerotic vascular disease, is a condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels outside the heart and brain. It primarily affects the arteries that supply blood to the limbs, especially the legs, but can also involve other vascular regions. The narrowing occurs due to the build-up of fatty deposits, called plaques, within the arterial walls—a process known as atherosclerosis.
Symptoms of vaatlijden may include leg pain or cramping during activity (claudication), numbness, weakness, coldness, or
Risk factors for vaatlijden include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, diabetes mellitus, obesity, physical
Diagnosis typically involves non-invasive tests such as ankle-brachial index (ABI), Doppler ultrasound, or angiography. Management includes
Prevention focuses on addressing modifiable risk factors by promoting healthy diet, smoking cessation, regular exercise, and
Vaatlijden is a common vascular condition, especially among older adults, and its management aims to improve