PAD in the lower extremities can cause cramping, pain or tiredness in the leg or hip muscles while walking or climbing stairs. PAD patients may also experience slow-to-heal or non-healing wounds on their feet.
Worsening symptoms can increase risk for heart attack or stroke and in extreme cases can require leg amputations. Although there are more than 3 million new diagnosed cases each year in the U.S., PAD often goes undiagnosed.
PAD increases the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke.
Risk factors for PAD include: smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure/cholesterol; risk increases with age. Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can lower your risk for PAD – this includes quitting smoking, controlling diabetes and high cholesterol/high blood pressure, and weight monitoring. Simple exercise programs and medications are also possible prevention methods – consult with your physician to formulate a health plan that’s right for you.
To learn more, visit the SSM Health Vascular Institute online.