Peripheral Arterial Disease

Poor limb circulations, muscle aches or fatigue in the legs, and sores in the feet that take longer than normal to heal are all signs of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

PAD occurs when fatty deposits block blood vessels in the legs, decreasing blood flow and increasing the risk for heart attack and stroke. Most people don’t realize they have PAD and it can become severe if it isn’t recognized soon enough. Severe instances of PAD can result in amputation.

Seeking treatment and taking care of your blood vessels can reduce the symptoms before they become too severe.

How Do I Know if I’m At Risk For PAD?

Heart disease and diabetes will put you at risk for PAD, but these other conditions can increase this risk:

• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Abnormal blood cholesterol levels
• Obesity or being overweight
• Older than 50 years old
• No physical activity
• Family history of heart disease
• Previous heart attack or stroke

According to the American Diabetes Association, one of every three people with diabetes over the age of 50 has PAD. They also say that exercise can be used to prevent and treat PAD. Learn more here.