Treatment options for intermittent claudication? thanks!

Walk!: If symptoms are severe or you are in danger of amputation, re-vascularization by surgery or angioplasty is needed. For most, you need to reduce your risk factors: stop smoking, lower cholesterol and treat high blood pressure. Medications specific to claudication are not very useful. Most useful is to maintain a walking program, which helps form new blood vessels.

Many: Intermittent claudication is due to deficient circulation in the legs and hurts because the muscles are starving for oxygen. If you smoke, quitting can immediately provide relief. A drug called Pletal (cilostazol) is helpful for some. Restoring circulation by either using a balloon and stent or operation is the last option but often highly beneficial.