When people think about circulation problems, they often picture severe leg pain or trouble walking. But peripheral artery disease (PAD) doesn’t always announce itself so clearly. In fact, many people have PAD for years without realizing it because they have few symptoms or none at all.

That can be a problem because PAD is more than just a leg condition. It’s a sign that plaque has built up inside your arteries, reducing blood flow. Left untreated, it can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and serious problems with your legs and feet. Knowing who is at risk and what signs to watch for can help you catch it early.

What is peripheral artery disease?

PAD happens when fatty deposits, called plaque, narrow the arteries that carry blood to your arms and legs. As the arteries become narrower, your muscles don’t get enough oxygen-rich blood during activity.

While PAD can become serious, it often develops slowly over time. That’s one reason many people don’t notice anything is wrong in the early stages.

Can you have PAD without symptoms?

Many people with PAD don’t have any classic warning signs. Others may have mild symptoms that they chalk up to getting older, arthritis or being out of shape. But even without symptoms, PAD can damage your blood vessels and raise your risk of heart disease and stroke. That’s why it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider if you have risk factors, even if your legs feel fine.

Who is most at risk?

Anyone can develop PAD, but your risk is higher if you:

• Smoke or used to smoke
• Have diabetes
• Have high blood pressure
• Have high cholesterol
• Are age 65 or older
• Are over age 50 with diabetes or a history of smoking
• Have a family history of heart disease, stroke or PAD

People with more than one risk factor are especially likely to develop the condition.

What symptoms should you watch for?

When PAD causes symptoms, they often appear during activity because your muscles need more blood than narrowed arteries can deliver.

Common symptoms include:

• Cramping, aching or pain in the calves, thighs or buttocks while walking that improves with rest
• Leg weakness or heaviness
• One foot or leg feeling colder than the other
• Slow-healing sores on the feet or legs
• Shiny skin or slower hair growth on the legs
• Weak or absent pulses in the feet
• Numbness or pain in the feet, especially as the disease becomes more advanced

These symptoms may come on gradually, making them easy to ignore. If you notice them, don’t assume they’re just a normal part of aging.

How is PAD diagnosed?

If your healthcare provider suspects PAD, they may perform a simple test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). This painless test compares blood pressure in your ankles with the blood pressure in your arms. A lower blood pressure in the ankles may mean blood flow is reduced.

Your provider may also recommend an ultrasound or other imaging tests if more information is needed.

How is PAD treated?

The good news is that PAD can often be managed, especially when it’s found early. Quitting smoking, staying physically active, eating a heart-healthy diet and controlling blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes can all help slow the disease. Some people also benefit from medications or procedures to improve blood flow.

Even if you don’t have symptoms, it’s worth talking with your healthcare provider if you’re at higher risk for PAD. Catching it early can help protect not only your legs but your heart and brain as well.

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