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Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

What is PAD?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that affects approximately 12 million Americans.  It occurs when blood vessels become narrowed or blocked by plaque, which decreases blood flow.  PAD can develop in other areas of the body, but is commonly found in the legs, feet and toes.  If left untreated, it can cause severe leg pain and lead to critical limb ischemia. Symptoms of PAD can include, but not limited to, the following:

  • Claudication: Dull cramping pain in the hips, thighs and calves when walking or exercising
  • Numbness or tingling in the leg,foot or toes
  • Changes in skin temperature or color
  • Impotence
  • Weakness in the legs or arms

Critical Linb Ischemia (CLI):

PAD can progress to critical limb ischemia, which means ther is not enough blood being delivered to the leg to keep the tissue alive.  An estimated 1.5-2 million people in the United States suffer from CLI, and are at risk for amputation of the toes, feet and legs.

Who is at risk for PAD?

Age: PAD increases with age and affects approximately 20% of the U.S. population over 70.

Smoking: Smokers have three times the rate of PAD as non-smokers.

Diabetes: One out of three diabetics has PAD

Coronary Artery Disease: An estimated 40% of patients with Coronary Artery Disease have PAD.

Additional Risk Factors: Hypertension, high cholesterol, family history and obesity.

For More information on PAD and testing used to diagnose PAD click here: Testing Brochure

If you or someone you know is is at risk for PAD call to schedule an appointment today, testing performed in the office