Peripheral Artery Disease

Along with raising the risk of heart attack and stroke, this limited blood flow can induce leg pain while walking (claudication). The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, a condition whereby fatty deposits in the arterial walls harden and constrict the arteries.
PAD symptoms sometimes start slowly and might include muscle cramps, numbness, weakness, coldness in the lower leg or foot, slow-healing sores, or a change in skin tone. Some people might not have symptoms until the illness has advanced greatly.
Furthermore, raising the risk is a background of cardiovascular disease. Usually, diagnosis calls for a physical examination, ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, ultrasonic investigation, or angiography.
Treatment emphasises lifestyle modifications, including the management of underlying illnesses, a heart-healthy diet, frequent exercise, and smoking cessation. Often recommended are drugs to prevent blood clots and reduce cholesterol. More severe situations can call for surgical operations such as bypass surgery or angioplasty. Prevention of major consequences depends mostly on early identification and treatment.