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PAD

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Peripheral Arterial Disease, more commonly named PAD, is the result of fatty plaque buildup (called atherosclerosis) clogging of the arteries. Since the arteries are narrowed because of the plaque buildup, blood flow throughout the body is restricted. If blockage is severe, it can lead to pain, sores, and or discomfort while walking. In more serious cases, total loss of circulation in the legs and feet may result in gangrene, or even a loss of limb.

PAD affects anywhere from 8 to 12 million people in the United States. Unfortunately, many people have no signs of PAD and often times this disease goes undiagnosed by health professionals. PAD can lead to more serious problems, which include, but are not limited to, heart disease and stroke. This is the reason early detection of PAD is so important. Luckily, PAD can simply be detected using a painless Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) test.

Warning Signs

Unfortunately, many of the 8 to 12 million Americans that have PAD
will never have any symptoms of the disease, and even many
health professional leave PAD undiagnosed. This is why educating
individuals about the importance of identifying the warning signs can potentially prevent further damage from taking place. Below is a list of warning signs for PAD:

1. Calf, thigh, foot, and/or buttock pain with walking, relief after rest
2. Foot sores or leg wounds that do not heal quickly
3. Loss of hair in lower extremities
4. Formation of gangrene on the leg or foot

Risk Factors

Individuals who are at risk for peripheral arterial disease are individuals who are or have a history of:

• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Diabetes
• Smokers
• Overweight
• Inactivity
• High cholesterol levels
• Aging
• Family history of PAD, heart disease, or stroke

Call 1-866-523-LIFE (5433) to get more information on Healthy Life Screening.