Although very common, peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is often unrecognized which can lead to life-threatening consequences. The disease impacts the vascular system that circulates blood through the body, providing vital oxygen and nutrients while also eliminating waste.
“PAD occurs when plaque, known as atherosclerosis, builds up in the arteries of the legs or arms, reducing blood flow by narrowing or completely blocking vessels,” Dr. Luiz Araujo, Bayhealth vascular surgeon, said. “Nearly 70 percent of Americans are unaware they have it, attributing its mild symptoms to aging or other conditions.”
According to the Society of Vascular Surgery, the estimated eight million people with undiagnosed PAD are at higher risk of wounds that don’t heal properly, stroke, heart attack and more.
“PAD and PVD, peripheral vascular disease, are often used interchangeably,” Araujo said. “Although they both relate to the vascular system, they do differ somewhat. PAD specifically affects the arteries while PVD refers to a broader category of conditions impacting the veins, blood vessels and lymphatic system.”
Symptoms of PAD include pain or cramping in the legs that interferes with walking, leg ulcers that are slow to heal or do not heal at all as well as numbness or pain in the legs that may worsen at night. Risk factors for PAD fall into two categories, modifiable, or those that can be changed or non-modifiable, those that cannot be changed.
“Modifiable risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle,” Araujo said. “Non-modifiable risk factors include things like age, such as if you are over 65. Males are at higher risk than women. If there is a family history of heart disease, stroke or PAD. Hispanics and African Americans are also at higher risk. Genetics can play a part as well.”
Even those with non-modifiable risk factors can reduce their risk of PAD, Araujo explained.
“Adopt a healthier diet with more fruits, vegetables, lean meats and high-quality dairy, reducing the intake of sweets, processed foods and healthy fats,” Araujo said. “Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day and maintain a healthy weight. Talk to your primary care provider about prescriptions to reduce the risk of blood clots and limit alcohol consumption. Be sure to manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.”
Discuss your risk of PAD with your primary care physician, especially if you have experienced symptoms. If so, an evaluation by a vascular specialist should be scheduled as soon as possible. Learn mor about vascular health by visiting Bayhealth’s Vascular Department online.
