What is Peripheral Arterial Disease?

Peripheral arterial disease, also called PAD, is a condition in which the arteries that carry blood to the arms and legs become narrowed or blocked.

Your arteries deliver oxygen rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The arteries in your legs are called peripheral arteries. These vessels branch from the aorta, the body’s largest artery, and extend down into the legs and feet.

Healthy arteries are smooth and open, allowing blood to flow freely. Over time, plaque can build up inside the artery walls. Plaque is a sticky substance made mostly of fat and cholesterol. As plaque accumulates, the arteries become stiff and narrow, reducing blood flow.

PAD occurs when the arteries in the legs become too narrow or obstructed, limiting circulation.

Why PAD Matters

If left untreated, peripheral arterial disease can lead to serious complications, including:

• Leg pain or cramping with walking
• Difficulty exercising or climbing stairs
• Pain in the foot or toes while resting, especially at night
• Non healing sores or infections on the toes or feet
• Severe circulation loss that may lead to limb loss

PAD is also associated with other serious cardiovascular conditions and may increase the risk of:

• Heart attack
• Stroke

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing peripheral arterial disease, including:

• Increasing age
• Male gender
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Lack of regular exercise
• Family history of vascular disease

Symptoms of Peripheral Arterial Disease

Some people may have no symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Change in the color of one or both legs
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Sores on the feet, toes, or legs that do not heal
• Coldness in the lower leg or foot
• Slower growth of leg hair or toenails
• Weak or absent pulse in the feet or legs
• Pain in the calf, thigh, or hip muscles after activity such as walking or climbing stairs

Diagnosis

Peripheral arterial disease can often be diagnosed with a simple, noninvasive Doppler ultrasound examination. This test helps confirm the presence and severity of reduced blood flow in the legs.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience symptoms of PAD, it is important to see a vascular surgeon for evaluation and treatment.

Vascular surgeons are specialists who can provide the full range of care options, including:

• Medical management
• Minimally invasive angioplasty or stent procedures
• Open bypass surgery

Seeing a specialist who offers all treatment approaches ensures you receive the care most appropriate for your condition.

Even Without Symptoms, Screening May Be Recommended If You Are:

• Over age 70
• Over age 50 and have a history of smoking or diabetes
• Under age 50 with major risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, or diabetes

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of PAD. Options may include:

• Lifestyle changes such as exercise and smoking cessation
• Medications to improve circulation and reduce risk
• Minimally invasive angioplasty or stenting
• Open bypass surgery in more advanced cases