Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease, identified by its English abbreviation PAD, is a narrowing of the arteries that carry blood to the legs and arms, usually due to a buildup of fat in their walls. This reduces blood flow to the extremities.

Common symptoms: pain or cramping in the legs when walking that eases with rest, a feeling of cold in a foot, wounds that are slow to heal, or changes in skin color.

Associated factors: smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are linked to its development.

Which specialist treats it? The angiologist, the vascular surgeon, and the cardiologist take part in its evaluation. If you notice discomfort in your legs when moving or have these risk factors, it is worth discussing it with a specialist in circulation to learn the condition of your arteries.