Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or dogged with plaque (cholesterol) – referred to as atherosclerosis – reducing blood flow to the legs. PAD can lead to leg pain when walking (claudication), disability, and even amputation. Blocked leg arteries can be a red flag that other arteries, including those in the heart and brain, may also be blocked—increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
The chance of having PAD increases with age. People over age 50, especially men, have a higher risk for PAD, but the risk is increased if a person:
Peripheral artery disease is also likely to be a sign of a more widespread accumulation of fatty deposits in the arteries. This condition may be reducing blood flow to the heart and brain, as well as the legs.
Peripheral artery disease can often be improved by quitting tobacco, exercising and eating a healthy diet.
While many people with PAD do not experience obvious symptoms, others with the disease may have:
If peripheral artery disease progresses, pain may even occur when resting or lying down. It may be severe enough to disrupt sleep.
Some of the tests a Deborah Specialty Physician may rely on to diagnose peripheral artery disease are:
In the United States, more than 18 million Americans suffer from Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) which is the hardening of the arteries — also known as “atherosclerosis” — in the limbs, often the legs. Approximately 20 percent of individuals over the age of 60 have PAD, and many of those with PAD do not experience any symptoms, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Peripheral Artery Disease can reduce mobility and increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. If left untreated, PAD can be fatal.
Because vascular disease develops over time, it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle through awareness, prevention and risk reduction.