Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Peripheral artery disease is a very common condition, and it could affect anyone. Although it’s easily treatable, it can lead to serious complications if not managed.

Peripheral artery disease

Peripheral artery disease occurs when the arteries in the arms, pelvic area, or legs become blocked or narrowed as a result of plaque buildup, which, in turn, reduces the blood flow to them.

Causes and risk factors leading to peripheral artery disease

• The most common cause of peripheral arterial disease is atherosclerosis.
• Other possible causes include injury to the arm or leg, swelling or irritation in the blood vessels, changes in the muscles or ligaments, and radiation exposure.

The following factors increase the risk of peripheral artery disease:

• Family history.
• Hypertension.
• High cholesterol.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Diabetes.
• Obesity.
• Smoking.

Symptoms of peripheral artery disease

PAD might not cause symptoms in mild cases. Common symptoms include:

• Leg pain and discomfort when walking or being active.
• Muscle pain and cramps that start with exercise and end with rest.
• Pain and discomfort in the hips, buttocks, thighs, or calves.
• Coldness in the lower leg or foot.
• Leg weakness or numbness.
• The pulse becomes weak or disappears in the legs or feet.
• In severe cases: leg discomfort when resting, foot and toe ulcers, slow-growing toenails, skin discoloration, and hair loss on the legs.
• Peripheral artery disease might lead to tissue death that might cause the loss of the limb.

Diagnosis of peripheral artery disease

• Physical exam.
• Imaging tests.
• Blood tests.

Treatment of peripheral artery disease

• Medicines.
• Surgery.
• Following a healthy lifestyle, which also helps in preventing PAD.