Cardiology

PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease) Fact Sheet

• PAD or peripheral arterial disease, refers to narrowing of arteries of the legs, arms, kidneys, or neck.
  
  
• PAD affects approximately 8 million Americans, but often goes undiagnosed by healthcare professionals. 
  
  
• PAD is more common in older patients but can occur at any age.
  
  
• Patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and those who smoke are at increased risk for developing PAD.
  
  
• The most common symptom of PAD is cramping or aching in the legs or hips when walking or climbing stairs.
  
  
• Many people with PAD have no symptoms whatsoever.
  
  
• Diagnosis of PAD is critical.  Those with PAD have a much higher risk (5x greater) for heart attack and stroke; and if left untreated, PAD can lead to serious infection (gangrene) or loss of limb (amputation).
  
  
• PAD can be diagnosed with a simple, noninvasive test done in the office where blood pressure cuff measurement is taken both on the arm and the leg.
  
  
• Many patients with PAD are treated with medications.