Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
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Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when the arteries that carry blood to the limbs are narrowed or blocked. This is usually due to a buildup of a fatty substance called plaque in the walls of the arteries. PAD most often affects the arteries in the legs. When these arteries are narrowed or blocked, blood flow to the legs is reduced. This can cause leg and foot pain and other symptoms.
If severe enough, reduced blood flow to the legs can lead to tissue death (gangrene) and the loss of a toe, foot, or leg. Having PAD also makes it more likely that arteries in other body areas are blocked. For instance, arteries that carry blood to the heart or brain may be affected. This raises the chances of heart attack and stroke.
Risk Factors
Certain factors can make PAD more likely. They include:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Unhealthy cholesterol levels
- Obesity
- Inactive lifestyle
- Older age
- Family history of PAD