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Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
A circulatory disease that puts the heart, brain, and limbs at risk
Overview
PAD is a chronic disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries of the legs. This buildup typically happens gradually over time. If allowed to progress, blood flow in the artery can become limited if not blocked all together. PAD is relatively common, affecting more than 10 million people in the US.
Symptoms
Many patients experience little to no symptoms, however some of the more common symptoms of PAD are...
Fatigue or Cramping of the Muscles While Walking
Pain in Feet or Toes While Resting
Open Wounds on Feet or Toes
Causes
PAD can be caused by a large variety of factors. If any of these apply to you and you match any of the symptoms, you should consider seeing a vascular specialist!
Kidney Failure
Sedentary and get Little Daily Exercise
Personal History of Smoking, Obesity, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, or Diabetes
Age
A Family History of Vascular Problems
Diagnosis
To diagnose PAD, commonly a ankle brachial index (ABI) will be preformed. This test involves taking a blood pressure reading at the ankle and comparing it to that in the arm. Typically an angiogram is done to determine where in the arteries plaque has built up and to assess treatment options. This can be done using a CT, MRI, or through a catheter-directed angiogram where your vascular specialist would place a thin tube into the artery and inject due to where where the blockages are located.
Treatment
PAD is usually treated by aggressively managing the risk factors within lifestyle changes and medication. Often it is recommended that the patient quits smoking, begins to control their blood pressure and cholesterol levels, manage their diabetes, and lose weight. Faithfully following an exercise program has also shown to significantly improve the symptoms of PAD. If PAD is causing serious symptoms, more extreme treatments may be considered. These include balloon angioplasty, stent placement, or surgical bypass.
Visit Society of Vascular Surgery for more information.
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