PAD, or Peripheral Artery Disease, is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the limbs, usually the legs, become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. This restricts blood flow and can cause pain, especially during physical activity. PAD is commonly caused by atherosclerosis, which is the hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to cholesterol and fatty deposits.
Symptoms of PAD can include:
- Pain or cramping in the legs, especially when walking or exercising (claudication)
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Cold or discolored skin on the legs or feet
- Wounds or sores that heal slowly or not at all
- In severe cases, it can lead to tissue death or gangrene.
Risk factors for PAD include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a family history of vascular disease. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications to manage symptoms and risk factors, and in some cases, procedures such as angioplasty or surgery to restore blood flow.