Peripheral Artery Disease

What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when the arteries that carry blood to your legs and arms become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup, the same process that causes coronary artery disease in the heart. This reduces blood flow to your limbs and can cause pain, numbness, or weakness, especially during walking. PAD is common, particularly in people over 60 or those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of smoking.

Why Is It Treated?

PAD is more than just a circulation problem in your legs. It’s a sign that plaque buildup may be affecting arteries throughout your body, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. Treating PAD relieves symptoms like leg pain and cramping, helps you stay active, and reduces your overall cardiovascular risk. Left untreated, severe PAD can lead to non-healing wounds and, in rare cases, limb loss.

What to Expect

Diagnosis typically starts with an arterial ultrasound, a simple, painless test that uses sound waves to see blood flow in your arteries and identify any narrowing or blockages. Treatment often includes lifestyle changes (especially walking programs and smoking cessation), medications to improve blood flow and reduce cardiovascular risk, and in more severe cases, procedures to open blocked arteries.

How to Prepare

For your visit, wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your legs and feet. Bring a list of your medications and be ready to describe your symptoms, especially any leg pain, cramping, or numbness during walking and how far you can walk before symptoms start. Share your history of smoking, diabetes, or high blood pressure, as these are key risk factors your doctor will want to address.