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Health Conditions
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Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
What is it?
Peripheral artery disease is a sub-type of peripheral vascular disease (PVD). PVD is a condition that results in blockage of blood vessels and can result in altered blood flow throughout the body. More specifically, PAD leads to obstruction of blood flow through the arteries (a particular type of blood vessel). PAD is similar to coronary artery disease (CAD), a disease in which the arteries of the heart are obstructed. Although it can affect any artery outside of your heart (which is why it is called ?peripheral?), PAD generally refers to problems with blood flow in your extremities, particularly in your legs. When the flow of blood through your legs is blocked, your muscles do not get enough oxygen. This can lead to symptoms such as pain in your calves or thighs when you walk.
PAD can be a sign of a more serious condition and can lead to decreased blood flow to your heart and brain. Chest pain, or possibly a heart attack, can occur when blood flow is decreased in the vessels of the heart. A stroke can develop if blood flow is decreased in the vessels of the neck or brain.
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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.
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What is it?
