Peripheral Arterial Disease: Risk Factors

Peripheral Arterial Disease

Approximately 12 million Americans suffer from Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), often referred to as hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis.
This narrowing of the blood vessels in the legs is caused by the buildup of fatty plaque and is a strong predictor of heart disease. Peripheral Arterial Disease may show up in leg arteries before there are any signs or symptoms. Many people experience discomfort while walking that is relieved by rest, but are unaware that it is due to blocked arteries.

Peripheral Arterial Disease Risk Factors
The following are contributing factors that often lead to peripheral arterial disease.
Controllable Peripheral Arterial Disease Risk Factors:

High blood pressure

Smoking

High cholesterol

Excessive alcohol use

Poor diet

Heart disease

Diabetes

Lack of exercise

Obesity

Uncontrollable Peripheral Arterial Disease Risk Factors: Family history and Age

Peripheral Arterial Disease Warning Signs

Unfortunately, there are often no symptoms or warning signs for peripheral arterial disease.

You may want to keep these symptoms in mind in the event that you or a loved one experience the following:

- Constant leg pain, tingling, burning or loss of sensation
- Pain during exercise, which is relieved during rest
- Cold legs
- Poor wound healing