April 8, 2025
By: Surbhi Chamaria, MD, FACC, FSCAI
Interventional Cardiologist
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is often referred to as a "silent killer" because many people don’t know they have it until it's too late. Affecting over 8.5 million individuals in the United States (12% of the population) and 6.8 million individuals ≥40 years of age (7.2% of the population), PAD is a serious condition in which the blood vessels in the legs become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to the extremities. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications like amputations, heart attacks, and strokes. The diagnosis of peripheral artery disease confers a 25-30% 5-year risk of cardiovascular death.
But the good news is that with early detection and proper management, people living with PAD can lead full, active lives. So, how can you recognize the signs, and what can you do to prevent this life-altering disease from affecting you?
What is PAD and How Does it Happen?
PAD develops when the arteries that carry blood to your legs and feet become clogged with plaque—a build-up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. This reduces the amount of oxygen-rich blood reaching your muscles and tissues, leading to pain, cramping, and even more severe consequences like amputation over time.
Symptoms to Watch For
The symptoms of PAD can be subtle, and many people overlook them. Most often, PAD is either clinically silent or manifests as Intermittent Claudication (IC). “Classic” IC is characterized by pain that is brought on by exertion (walking), pain that is relieved within 10 minutes of rest or pain that does not occur at rest. Other common warning signs include:
- Leg pain or cramping, especially when walking or climbing stairs
- Coldness in one leg or foot
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Slow-healing wounds or ulcers on the legs or feet
- Change in color of the legs or feet (a bluish tint)
- Hair loss or slower hair growth on the legs
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention early. PAD is treatable, and intervention can prevent the condition from progressing to more serious stages.
Who’s at Risk?
Certain factors can increase your chances of developing PAD, including:
- Age: Those over 50 are more likely to develop PAD.
- Smoking: Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for PAD.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, contributing to PAD.
- High blood pressure and high cholesterol: Both can contribute to plaque build-up in the arteries.
- Family history: A family history of heart disease or vascular conditions can increase your risk.
Prevention is Key
While PAD is a serious condition, it’s also preventable. By adopting healthy habits, you can significantly reduce your risk:
- Quit smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of vascular damage.
- Exercise regularly: Walking, swimming, or cycling can help keep blood flowing.
- Eat a healthy diet: Low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Control your cholesterol and blood pressure: Regular check-ups and medications can help keep these in check.
- Manage diabetes: Keeping your blood sugar levels stable is crucial for vascular health.
Early Detection and Treatment
PAD can be diagnosed easily by an ultrasound of the legs or a CT scan. If you are having any of these symptoms then please speak with your primary care doctor or a cardiologist to order screening tests. If diagnosed early, PAD can often be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some cases, intervention. At Saint Mary's, we provide a wide range of treatment options for our patients from supervised exercise rehab programs to treatment with balloon angioplasty, drug coated balloons, atherectomy and stents.
Final Thoughts
Peripheral Artery Disease may not always show clear symptoms, but its impact can be far-reaching. Early detection and treatment are critical in preventing severe complications, like amputation or cardiovascular events.
If you’re at risk or experiencing symptoms, don’t ignore them. By adopting healthier lifestyle habits and seeking medical advice, you can take control of your vascular health and protect your future. PAD is manageable—don’t wait until it’s too late to act.
If you or your loved one is experiencing any symptoms, talk to your provider. To find a provider call 479.384.4759.