Left untreated, PADPeripheral Artery Disease, a potentially life threatening disease where plaque, like calcium, builds up along blood vessel walls, narrowing the arteries and reducing blood flow to the legs and feet. can lead to amputationTo surgically remove all or part of a limb (leg, foot or toe)
Symptoms of PAD
You’re getting older, and you’re noticing some changes in your health. Don’t ignore the signs or brush them off as “normal”. It might be more than just age catching up to you — it might be peripheral artery diseasePeripheral artery disease (PAD) is a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your head, organs, and limbs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue, and other substances in the blood. (PAD).
PAD causes narrowed, hardened arteriesArteries are blood vessels that carry blood to your heart and other parts of your body. in the legs, limiting blood flow to the legs and feet. PAD leads to a range of general symptoms — some of which can be hard to recognize as a sign of a more serious health issue. Many people just deal with the symptoms as a sign of aging, or they think it’s part of another health issue they have, such as heart problems.
But there is good news
PAD symptoms are often treatable. Early detection is important, and treatment under the guidance of a PAD specialist can lead to relief and may prevent the progression of the disease.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of PAD or have risk factors for the disease (increasing age, diabetes mellitusDiabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both., kidney diseaseA disease that impairs the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products and extra water from the blood., hypertensionHypertension is a medical term for high blood pressure., smoking), learn more by reading further on this website. Talk about what you’ve learned with a health care professional to see if your condition might be worse than you realize.
Stop ignoring the signs. Talk to a PAD specialist. Take control of your health.