Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

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What Is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory condition where narrowed or blocked arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most often affecting the legs. This restricted blood flow can cause symptoms like leg pain, cramping, numbness, and weakness, especially during physical activity. PAD is typically caused by a buildup of fatty deposits (atherosclerosis) in the artery walls, which can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Common risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and aging. Early detection and management through lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes medical procedures are essential to improving blood flow, relieving symptoms, and preventing serious complications.

Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease?

Leg Pain or Cramping

Aching, cramping, or pain in the legs, thighs, or calves during walking or exercise that improves with rest.

Numbness or Weakness in the Legs

A feeling of weakness, heaviness, or numbness in the legs due to poor blood circulation.

Hair Loss or Slower Hair Growth on Legs and Feet

Reduced blood flow can cause hair thinning or loss on the legs and toes.

Sores or Wounds That Won’t Heal

Slow-healing or non-healing sores on the feet, toes, or legs due to poor blood supply.

Shiny Skin or Skin Color Changes

Skin on the legs or feet may appear shiny, pale, or have a bluish tint.

Coldness in Lower Leg or Foot

One leg or foot may feel colder than the other, even in a warm environment.

Peripheral Artery Disease FAQ

What causes Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

PAD is primarily caused by a buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This buildup narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow to the limbs.

Who is at risk for Peripheral Artery Disease?

Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, aging (especially over 50), and a family history of heart or vascular disease.

What are the early signs of Peripheral Artery Disease?

The most common early symptom is leg pain or cramping during walking or exercise (claudication) that goes away with rest. Some people may not experience noticeable symptoms in the early stages.

How is Peripheral Artery Disease diagnosed?

PAD is typically diagnosed with a physical exam and tests like the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), which compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm to detect poor circulation.

Can Peripheral Artery Disease be cured?

While PAD cannot be fully cured, it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, medical procedures to restore blood flow and prevent complications.

What happens if Peripheral Artery Disease is left untreated?

If untreated, PAD can lead to severe complications, including chronic pain, non-healing wounds, tissue damage, and in extreme cases, limb amputation due to critical limb ischemia.