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Peripheral Artery Disease

A vascular condition caused by atherosclerotic narrowing of the leg arteries, making walking difficult.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a narrowing or blockage of the arteries — most often in the legs — caused by atherosclerosis. Reduced blood flow to the affected region means the muscles cannot receive enough oxygen.

The classic symptom is pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs when walking (intermittent claudication) that resolves with rest. In advanced disease, pain may occur even at rest, and foot or toe wounds may fail to heal.

PAD is also a marker of atherosclerosis elsewhere — in the heart and brain arteries — so it is important for overall cardiovascular risk assessment.

Symptoms

Pain or cramping in the calf, thigh, or buttock when walking (claudication)
Pain relief with rest
Pain at rest in advanced stages
Coldness, numbness, or color change in the legs
Slow-healing or non-healing wounds and ulcers
Weak or absent pulses in the feet
Loss of leg hair and nail changes

Risk Factors

Smoking (the strongest risk factor)
Diabetes
Hypertension and high cholesterol
Advanced age (over 60)
Obesity and physical inactivity
Chronic kidney disease
Family history of cardiovascular disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If you repeatedly experience leg pain when walking
  • Seek emergency care if there is a non-healing foot wound or blackening
  • If leg pain has begun to occur at rest
  • Patients with diabetes should seek prompt evaluation for any change in foot condition
  • For periodic vascular assessment in smokers and people with diabetes

Treatment Methods

01
Smoking cessation and a walking exercise program (the most effective treatment)
02
Aspirin or clopidogrel (antiplatelet therapy)
03
Statins and antihypertensive medications
04
Angioplasty and stenting (balloon opening of the vessel)
05
Bypass surgery (to bridge the blocked segment)
06
Wound care and multidisciplinary diabetic-foot management for advanced ulcers

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.