Understanding Peripheral Artery Disease: Your Questions Answered

What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a circulatory condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs, most commonly the legs.

Common Symptoms

• Leg pain or cramping during activity (claudication)
• Numbness or weakness in legs
• Cold feet or legs
• Slow-healing sores on legs or feet
• Changes in leg color

Risk Factors

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Age over 60
• Family history

Diagnosis Methods

1. Ankle-brachial index (ABI)
2. Ultrasound
3. Angiography
4. CT or MRI scans

Treatment Options

Lifestyle Changes

• Smoking cessation
• Regular exercise
• Healthy diet

Medical Treatments

• Blood pressure medications
• Cholesterol medications
• Blood thinners

Surgical Options

• Angioplasty
• Bypass surgery

Prevention Tips

• Regular physical activity
• Maintain healthy weight
• Control blood sugar
• Monitor blood pressure
• Regular check-ups

When to See Your Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent leg pain
• Non-healing wounds
• Color changes in extremities
• Severe pain at rest