Get a Second Opinion

You should know that there are many treatment options available for peripheral artery disease (PAD). When you discuss this with your health care provider, ask how familiar he or she is with PAD treatment options.

You also could ask if he or she has a limb salvage program. If your doctor is not a PAD specialist or does not have a limb salvage program, GET A SECOND OPINION.³³ Not all health care professionals are PAD specialists. It’s OK to get a second opinion.

Know your options

For example, your doctor may ask you to make long-lasting lifestyle changes³⁴ or have a minimally invasive medical procedure.³⁵ Or if your PAD has progressed significantly and diet, exercise and medications are not enough, your health care provider could recommend an amputation, a common treatment for the most severe stage of PAD.⁹

Amputations are often performed before additional tests are completed.¹⁶ If amputation is suggested, talk to your health care provider about other options and request a second opinion from a PAD specialist before committing to amputation.

Ask questions, don’t wait

Learning about all of your options is important. The earlier you are diagnosed and treated for PAD, the better. Receiving treatment in the earlier stages of PAD may help you avoid progressing to advanced stages of the disease.

There is a connection between amputation and putting your life at risk. It’s possible some treatments might help you avoid amputation.²⁵ Contact another health care professional or PAD specialist today to get a second opinion.