What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) affects the arteries outside the heart, most commonly in the legs. This condition occurs when plaque—a waxy substance—builds up inside the arteries, narrowing or blocking them. This limits blood flow to the legs and feet, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling.

How Common is Peripheral Artery Disease?

PAD is a widespread condition affecting millions globally. In India alone, approximately 40 to 50 million people are estimated to have PAD, with numbers expected to rise as the population ages.

What are the Risk Factors for PAD?

Key risk factors for PAD include:

• Smoking: Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop PAD compared to non-smokers.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing PAD risk.
• High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol: Both conditions can damage blood vessels and lead to plaque buildup, worsening PAD.
• Family History: A family history of PAD can increase your risk of developing it.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can contribute to PAD, as exercise helps improve blood flow and muscle strength.

Although having these risk factors increases the likelihood of developing PAD, it does not guarantee it. Managing these factors through lifestyle changes and proper medical care can help reduce your risk.

What Is Considered the First Symptom of Peripheral Artery Disease?

The initial sign of PAD is typically leg pain or discomfort during exercise that eases with rest, known as claudication. Other early symptoms can include numbness, tingling in the feet or toes, and a feeling of coldness in the affected limb.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of PAD?

Signs and symptoms of PAD may include:

• Pain or discomfort in the legs or feet, especially when walking or climbing stairs.
• Numbness or weakness in the legs.
• A cold sensation in the lower legs or feet.
• Slow-healing wounds on the feet.
• Blue or purple discoloration of the skin.

How Can I Prevent PAD?

To prevent PAD, consider adopting these lifestyle changes:

• Quit Smoking: Smoking cessation is crucial.
• Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity improves blood flow.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can help manage risk factors.
• Control Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, and Diabetes: Proper management of these conditions can reduce PAD risk.

How is PAD Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of PAD involves a physical exam and various tests, such as:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) Test: Measures blood flow in the legs.
• Ultrasound: Assesses blood flow and vessel conditions.
• CT Angiography or Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): Provides detailed images of blood vessels.

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms like leg pain, claudication, burning sensations, numbness, weakness, or non-healing sores on your feet or toes.

How is PAD Treated?

Treatment options for PAD include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy diet.
• Medications: Blood thinners or cholesterol-lowering drugs may be prescribed.
• Surgery: In severe cases, procedures like peripheral angioplasty (inserting a balloon to open a blocked artery) or bypass surgery (rerouting blood flow around a blockage) may be necessary.

How Does Peripheral Artery Disease Affect My Body?

PAD restricts blood flow to the legs and feet, causing pain, cramping, and fatigue. Over time, it can lead to skin discoloration, slow-healing wounds, and in severe cases, tissue death and gangrene.

What Are the Stages of Peripheral Artery Disease?

PAD progresses through four stages:

1. Mild: Cramping and fatigue during exercise.
2. Moderate: Symptoms become more frequent and severe.
3. Severe: Pain even at rest.
4. Critical: Severe symptoms with potential tissue damage.

What Are the Complications of Peripheral Artery Disease?

Complications of untreated PAD include skin ulcers, infections, tissue death, and, in severe cases, amputation. PAD also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

How Does Smoking Affect PAD?

Smoking significantly contributes to PAD by damaging artery walls, increasing plaque buildup, and reducing blood flow to the legs, exacerbating PAD symptoms.

What Raises the Risk of PAD?

Other than smoking, risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, family history, older age, being overweight, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Slip Disc and PAD

A slip disc, or herniated disc, occurs when the soft tissue between vertebrae in the spine bulges or ruptures, causing pain and numbness in the back, legs, or arms. While not directly related, slip disc and PAD share common risk factors like being overweight and a sedentary lifestyle. If you have a slip disc, it may cause leg pain or weakness similar to PAD symptoms. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment of both conditions.

Summing Up

PAD is a serious condition impacting health and quality of life. Recognizing symptoms and seeking medical attention is crucial. With proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, managing PAD and reducing complications is possible. Prioritizing peripheral vascular health is vital for overall well-being.