What You Need to Know About PAD

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common circulatory condition in which the arteries in the legs or arms are narrowed or blocked. This can restrict blood flow to the affected limbs, causing pain, numbness, and other symptoms.

Risk factors for PAD include:

* Age: PAD is more common in people over 50.

* Smoking: Smoking is the leading risk factor for PAD.

* Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop PAD.

* High blood pressure: High blood pressure can damage the arteries and increase the risk of PAD.

* High cholesterol: High cholesterol can build up in the arteries and cause them to narrow.

* Obesity: Obesity is a risk factor for PAD.

* Family history of PAD: People with a family history of PAD are more likely to develop the condition.

Symptoms of PAD can include:

* Pain in the legs or arms, especially when walking or exercising

* Numbness or tingling in the legs or arms

* Weakness in the legs or arms

* Sores on the legs or feet that do not heal

* Changes in the color of the skin on the legs or arms

If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor right away. PAD can be diagnosed with a simple blood test and ultrasound.

Treatment for PAD:

There are a number of treatments for PAD, including:

Smoking cessation

Exercise

Healthy diet

Medicines to lower blood pressure and cholesterol

Surgery if the arteries are severely blocked

If you have PAD: you should see your doctor to learn more about your condition and how to manage it.