PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE

Narrowing of arteries which results in reduced blood flow to head, arms, stomach and legs. Usually, affects the arteries in the legs. This causes leg pain while walking.

Atherosclerosis or build-up of cholesterol in the walls of arteries is the main cause of PAD. Cholesterol deposition in the arteries supplying blood to the limbs reduces blood supply to the affected limbs. Other causes that may lead to PAD include:
High Blood pressure and high cholesterol levels
Blood vessel inflammation
Diabetes
Obesity
Age - advance age may increase the risk
Family history
Injury to limbs that damage the arteries
Abnormalities of the ligaments or muscles in the legs
Exposure to radiation
Smoking

SYMPTOMS

Claudication or leg pain while walking or during activity that disappears after rest
Painful cramping in the hip, thigh, or calf muscles
Weakness or numbness, tingling, or feeling of pins and needles in the lower legs or feet
Coldness in the lower leg or foot
Sores on the legs, feet, or toes that do not heal
Change in colour of the legs
Loss of hair or slow growing hair on the legs and feet
Slow growing toenails
Shiny skin on the legs
Weak pulse or no pulse in the legs or feet

Even the most complex heart issues can be managed with timely diagnosis and the right treatment.