Peripheral Artery Disease

**Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)**

**Description:**

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory condition that affects the arteries outside of the heart and brain, particularly those in the legs and feet. It occurs when plaque builds up in these arteries, narrowing or blocking them, reducing blood flow.

**Symptoms:**

* Pain, cramping, or numbness in the legs when walking or exercising (claudication)
* Cold or numb feet
* Slow-healing sores on the legs or feet
* Discolored or brittle toenails

**Causes and Risk Factors:**

* Atherosclerosis (plaque formation)
* High blood pressure
* Diabetes
* Smoking
* Obesity
* Physical inactivity

**Diagnosis:**

* Physical exam
* Ankle-brachial index (ABI)
* Doppler ultrasound

**Treatment:**

* Lifestyle modifications (smoking cessation, exercise, healthy diet)
* Medications (aspirin, statins, ACE inhibitors)
* Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) or stenting
* Surgery (bypass surgery or endarterectomy)

**Complications:**

* Critical limb ischemia (severe pain and tissue loss)
* Skin ulcers
* Amputation

**Prevention:**

* Managing risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, etc.)
* Quitting smoking
* Exercising regularly
* Maintaining a healthy weight