Facts About Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Article by: Bud Shuler, M.D., F.A.C.S

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), often called “hardening of the arteries”, begins as early as the teenage years as a fatty, cholesterol smudge on the walls of the arteries carrying blood to the muscles and skin of the legs. Over time, this builds up to more significant blockages (plaque) that slow or stop the ability of oxygen and nutrients to make it to your legs. It is made worse by smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and unfortunately, age. These symptoms include cramping pain, heaviness, and fatigue in the calves or thighs with activity but are almost immediately relieved by rest. Walking up a hill or stairs usually brings symptoms on faster. Ulcers and gangrene are signs of more significant disease and warnings of limb loss. Although treated differently, PAD is also a marker for heart disease and stroke because of the similar build up of plaque in these arteries.

Unfortunately, 10 percent of American over 55 years of age and almost 20 percent over 65 have PAD but don’t know it. Many believe their aching tired legs are because of age, arthritis, or some other malady and many fail to be treated or remain undiagnosed. Simple, painless testing is available, and if the diagnosis is still in question, an evaluation by a vascular specialist may help. Both are covered by most insurance plans.

What is great about knowing that you have PAD is that it can be controlled most often without a procedure. Changing your diet; controlling your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure; exercising regularly; and kicking the smoking habits each lower your risk significantly. In addition, a trial of medications may improve your pain-free walking distance and should usually be tried before any procedure is performed. Your primary care provider is an expert at guiding you through this process. In addition, these measures often improve your quality of life, and allow you more time to affect the lives of others in a positive way, especially the lives of your grand and great-grandkids! If conservative measures fail to improve your quality of life, one should seek consultation with a vascular expert, someone committed to making a difference in your life.

Dr. Bud Shuler is NW Florida’s only fellowship trained vascular specialist, board certified in both Vascular Surgery and Vascular Medicine. His central focus is on PAD and venous disease of the legs and on making a positive difference in the lives of others. He is the medical director of the panhandle’s first nationally-accredited, comprehensive vascular lab for diagnosing the many aspects of vascular disease. For more information, please visit www.ArteryAndVeins.com.