Home What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)? by Delilah Newton | Dec 27, 2018 (?) (?) (?) Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that develops when the arteries that supply blood to the arms or legs become completely or partially blocked as a result of atherosclerosis (build-up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls). One in every 8 Americans older than 60 years of age have PAD. In all, PAD affects as many as 12 million people in the United States. Possible Side Effects of PAD Angina and heart attacksStrokes and transient ischemic attacks (temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, which are often labeled "mini-strokes")Claudication (condition in which cramping pain in the leg is induced by exercise)Non-healing leg ulcers Critical limb ischemia (severe blockage in the arteries of the lower extremities) Common Risk Factors Slightly more men than women have PADHigh cholesterolSmokingHigh blood pressureDiabetesAtherosclerosisAge Managing PAD Lifestyle changes: Quit smoking, correct blood pressure and cholesterol numbersDevelop healthy eating habits and an exercise plan: Exercising can help increase the circulation and reduce pain in the lower extremities. Walking, hiking, and bike riding are good exercise options. A personal trainer can help tailor a custom workout plan that best fits a person’s needsMedications: Always consult with a physician about which medications may help PADSpecial procedures and surgeries: In some severe cases, surgery may be needed to open arteries that have narrowed. Consult with a physician to see if surgery is a necessary treatment PAD poses particular problems for patients with chronic wounds. Chronic toe and foot sores are common in people with PAD, as are cramping, numbness, weakness, or heaviness in the leg muscles. The Columbus Regional Health Wound Center performs tests for PAD, treats chronic wounds, which may have underlying conditions of PAD, and counsels patients on how to manage PAD. Show oldest on top Show newest on top Leave a comment Load more comments Thank you for the comment! Your comment must be approved first You've already submitted a review for this item Thank you! Your review has been submitted successfully Login to be able to comment Leave a comment Comment cannot be empty Rating is required Click to add (?) Click to add (?) New code Please type the code above You typed the code incorrectly. Please try again Want more stories like this? Subscribe to our E-newsletter Share this blog post: Go to Healthy Tomorrow home