Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a very common disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your organs, head, and limbs. This plaque causes narrowing of the peripheral arteries, which can cause a variety of symptoms and or further health complications.

PAD most commonly affects arties in the legs. However, this disease can also affect arteries that carry blood to your arms, stomach, head, and arms.

Signs and symptoms:

The most common symptoms of PAD include: aching, heaviness, cramping, or pain in the leg muscles when walking or climbing stairs. These symptoms can go away or ease with rest. Other signs and symptoms include bluish or pale skin tone, and weak pulses in the legs or feet.

Even if you don’t have signs or symptoms, we recommend to ask a doctor if you should get checked for PAD if you are 70 years or older, or if you are 50 years or older and have a history of smoking or diabetes. Other diseases or conditions can also increase your risk of PAD, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Good news:

PAD is easily diagnosed! We, Vascular Specialty Center, will have a couple of Free PAD Screening events coming in 2020, which will test to see if you suffer from the disease or not, at no cost.

Also, for any questions, concerns, or for appointments regarding PAD or any other vascular needs, call our office at 225-769-4493. Our team of board certified vascular surgeons will be more than happy to help you live a happier and healthier life.