PAD affects over 8.5 million US adults and over 113 million people worldwide.
If left untreated, PAD can lead to amputation, heart attack or stroke.
PAD is a vascular condition that occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, preventing blood flow throughout the body. The legs and feet are typically most affected by PAD. The lack of proper blood flow resulting from narrowed arteries reduces the amount of oxygen being delivered throughout the body, which can lead to infection, and in severe cases, amputation. Those with PAD are also at a higher risk for life-threatening conditions such as heart attack and stroke, which result from blockages in the coronary and carotid arteries, respectively.
You are at an increased risk for PAD if you meet any of the following criteria:
PAD is particularly dangerous because people often mistake the symptoms for other conditions, and because the disease often goes undiagnosed by healthcare professionals. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it could be a sign that you are suffering from PAD.
Diagnosis: PAD diagnosis begins with a quick, painless exam called an Ankle-brachial index (ABI), which takes only a few minutes and can be performed by your podiatrist during a routine checkup. The ABI compares the blood pressure in the lower legs to the blood pressure in the arms. If the ABI test shows abnormalities, your provider may recommend additional testing.
Treatment: If the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries is determined to be severe, outpatient procedures to remove the plaque can be performed by vascular specialists. More information on treatment options can be found here
In less severe situations, PAD can be managed with the help of lifestyle changes. Here are some of the steps you can take:
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