Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common condition that occurs when there’s a build-up of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to your limbs. This build-up narrows the arteries and can reduce blood flow to your legs and feet.

PAD is a serious condition that can lead to serious health complications, including amputation. However, it’s often possible to treat PAD and improve blood flow.

SYMPTOMS

PAD can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Leg pain when walking (claudication)
• Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet
• Coldness in the lower leg or foot, especially when compared to the other leg
• Sores or ulcers on the legs or feet that won’t heal

If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor so they can assess whether you have PAD.

CAUSES

PAD is usually caused by atherosclerosis, which is a build-up of plaque in the arteries. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances in the blood.

Atherosclerosis can occur in any artery in the body, but it’s most common in the arteries that supply blood to the heart (coronary arteries) and the arteries that supply blood to the brain (cerebral arteries).

PAD can also be caused by other conditions that damage or narrow the arteries, such as:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Smoking

HOW IS PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE DIAGNOSED?

If your doctor suspects you have PAD, they will usually carry out an ankle-brachial index (ABI) test. This test involves using a blood pressure cuff to measure the blood pressure in your arms and legs.

We will also look for signs of PAD, such as:

• Pale or shiny skin on your legs
• Weak or absent pulses in your legs
• Sores or ulcers on your legs that won’t heal

If you have PAD, it’s important to see a doctor so they can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable treatment.