What is PAD?

Posted: Sept. 1, 2005

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a highly prevalent disease characterized by blockages in the arteries of the legs. Individuals with PAD face a markedly increased risk of heart attack, stroke and death. The build-up of plaque is usually a result of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries -- the same condition that leads to heart artery blockages and heart attack.

PAD affects 8-12 million Americans, and one in every five people over the age of 70 has the disease. Advanced age, smoking, diabetes, high blood cholesterol, and hypertension are key risk factors. The most common and easily recognized symptom of PAD is discomfort; fatigue or pain that occurs in the buttock, thigh, or calf muscles when walking, and that is promptly relieved with rest. This symptom is called "claudication."

Unfortunately, current data suggests that less than one-half of individuals with PAD know they have the disease and its corresponding increased risk of death. This is believed to be because many individuals with PAD do not experience typical leg symptoms.

Early diagnosis of PAD can offer an opportunity to treat risk factors that can slow the progression of the disease and decrease the chance of a heart attack or stroke. Other treatments can decrease leg symptoms, prevent amputation, and improve quality of life.

Source: Vascular Disease Foundation

We Have Answers Do you have medical questions or need help finding a doctor? The experts at Columbia St. Mary's and Advanced Healthcare can help. Click here.