What does PAU mean in BRITISH MEDICINE

PAUs are caused by atherosclerosis, a disease in which cholesterol deposits form plaque on artery walls, narrowing and hardening them over time. As these vessels become more constricted, it often leads to reduced blood flow and the eventual formation of ulcers.

The elderly population is most at risk for developing PAUs due to their higher incidence of atherosclerosis. In addition, patients with diabetes are also more likely to develop this condition because high blood sugar levels can damage arteries and contribute to atherosclerosis.

Symptoms associated with this condition vary depending on where the ulcer appears. Commonly experienced symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting spells, weakness or numbness in limbs, and cold or blue skin coloration near the affected area. Additionally, other serious complications such as stroke or heart attack can occur if an ulcer becomes large enough to rupture or block off blood supply completely from an area.

Treatment for PAUs typically involve lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation and exercise as well as medications designed for managing cholesterol levels and maintaining good general health. In more severe cases where surgery may be necessary to remove plaque buildup or repair damages vessels, angioplasty may be performed on a patient's arteries using stents or drugs that dissolve clots present in vessels causing obstruction within them.