Obliterating Lesions of the Arteries of the Lower Extremities

Lower extremity arterial occlusive disease (LOAD) is a common disease characterized by gradual narrowing or occlusion of the arteries, leading to poor circulation in the lower extremities. Despite the fact that OPANK can be caused by various etiological factors, the most common forms are atherosclerosis obliterans and endarteritis obliterans.

Obliterating atherosclerosis is a consequence of general atherosclerosis and most often develops in people over 50 years of age. This is facilitated by metabolic disorders, which lead to the deposition of cholesterol in the walls of the arteries. Risk factors for the development of obliterating atherosclerosis are alcoholism, chronic nicotine intoxication and obesity. The appearance of complaints of cramps in the calf muscles, increased fatigue, chilliness of the feet, pain in the calf muscles when walking, as well as dry skin of the legs, transverse striations and brittleness of the nail plates, their clouding and hair loss on the back of the feet and knees may indicate the development of obliterative atherosclerosis. As the disease progresses, trophic ulcers may appear, and its irregular treatment can lead to the development of gangrene of the limb.

Obliterating endarteritis is another common form of OPANK, which most often develops in men under the age of 40-45 years. This type of OPANK is associated with frequent hypothermia and frostbite of the lower extremities, nervous stress, chronic nicotine and alcohol intoxication. The clinical picture of obliterating endarteritis is similar to that observed with obliterating atherosclerosis, but the disease progresses faster and can lead to the development of gangrene of the limb within 5-7 years.

Treatment of OPANK should be comprehensive and aimed at normalizing metabolism, dilating the vessels of the limb, improving microcirculation and tissue nutrition, as well as reducing blood viscosity. In some cases, the surgeon may prescribe reconstructive surgery on the vessels of the limb. However, in most cases, conservative treatment is used, including drug therapy, physical therapy, compression therapy, diet and regular exercise. An important component of treatment is giving up bad habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol.

Drug treatment of OPANK includes the use of drugs that improve microcirculation and tissue nutrition, as well as reduce blood viscosity, for example, aspirin, trental, pentoxifylline and others. If the disease progresses, treatment with anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents may be prescribed.

Physiotherapy includes a series of exercises aimed at improving blood circulation in the lower extremities and strengthening muscles. Compression therapy is carried out using special elastic bandages or socks, which help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.

The diet for OPANK should be rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, which is necessary to strengthen the walls of blood vessels. It is recommended to eat more vegetables, fruits, herbs, fish, seafood, and also limit the consumption of fatty, fried and sweet foods.

With OPANK, it is very important to regularly engage in physical exercise, which helps improve blood circulation in the lower extremities and strengthen the muscles. It is recommended to engage in walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, tai chi and other sports that do not put stress on the joints or cause pain.

In general, treatment of OPANC should be comprehensive and individually selected depending on the form and degree of the disease, age and condition of the patient. Regular monitoring by a doctor and compliance with treatment and prevention recommendations will help prevent the progression of the disease and maintain the health of the lower extremities.