Arterial insufficiency

Arterial insufficiency is a condition that slows or blocks blood flow in your arteries due to narrowing or a blockage. This disruption prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching your arms, legs, and other areas, which can lead to serious complications. However, early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce these risks. 

At Penn Medicine, our Vascular Medicine team provides expert care for arterial insufficiency, giving patients access to specialized vascular surgeons, advanced facilities, and innovative treatment options. Our specialists work together to tailor treatments to each person’s needs. Thanks to our research and clinical trials, eligible patients may also benefit from the latest therapies unavailable at other local hospitals, improving outcomes and enhancing quality of life. 

Arterial insufficiency affects everyone differently depending on the arteries that are narrowed or blocked. Common symptoms include:  

• Burning sensation in your feet or toes  
• Discolored skin on the lower part of your body  
• Dizziness  
• Pain in your legs or arms when you walk or do physical activity  
• Pain in your stomach after eating  
• Sores or wounds on your limbs that take a long time to heal  
• Unexplained weight loss 

Arterial insufficiency is commonly caused by a narrowing or blockage of the arteries, which can develop from several underlying conditions: 

• Atherosclerosis: This is the most common cause, where a buildup of fatty substances called plaque collects on artery walls, restricting blood flow. 
• Blood clots: Clots may form within an artery, cutting off or reducing blood flow, especially in arteries already narrowed by plaque. 

Additional risk factors like smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and lack of physical activity contribute to the likelihood of arterial insufficiency by promoting plaque buildup and weakening arterial walls. 

Arterial insufficiency occurs when blood flow through the arteries is reduced, affecting how blood reaches your body’s tissues. In contrast, venous insufficiency impacts the veins, which carry blood back to the heart. Arterial insufficiency can happen anywhere in the body, but venous insufficiency most commonly affects the legs. 

While anyone can experience arterial insufficiency, those with certain conditions are at an increased risk: 

• Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) 
• Blood clotting disorders 
• Diabetes 
• High blood pressure 
• High cholesterol 
  

Additionally, individuals who are pregnant, over 60, use estrogen-based birth control, or smoke tobacco face an increased risk of developing arterial insufficiency.

While genetics can influence the likelihood of developing arterial insufficiency, certain lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk. These include: 

• Avoiding tobacco 
• Being physically active every day 
• Following a heart-healthy diet 
• Limiting alcohol 
• Maintaining a healthy weight 
• Seeing your doctors regularly 

At Penn Medicine’s Vascular Medicine Program our specialists adopt an integrated approach to treating disorders that impact the flow of blood throughout the body. Our experienced team is dedicated to effectively diagnosing and managing conditions like arterial insufficiency, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care.  

Here’s what you can expect when you partner with us: 

• Multidisciplinary care: Our vascular specialists collaborate with cardiologists, neurologists, vascular surgeons, and other experts to prioritize your well-being, delivering care tailored to your needs. 
• End-to-end support: With a wealth of knowledge about various treatment options, our team will guide you through every step of your care journey, from coordinating with pharmacists to helping you navigate insurance complexities. 
• Care close to home: With providers located throughout the greater Philadelphia, Lancaster, and Princeton regions, we make it easy for you to access consultations, second opinions, and treatments right in your community.