Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Symptoms & Risks

Understanding PAD During PAD Awareness Month

September is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness about a serious but often overlooked condition. PAD affects nearly 1 in 5 adults over the age of 60, yet many people don’t know they have it until symptoms progress. Early detection is key to protecting both your circulation and your overall health.

At Hill Vascular & Vein Center, we want our patients and community to understand what PAD is, who’s at risk, and when it’s time to get evaluated.

What Is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

PAD is a condition where the arteries that carry blood to your legs and feet become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque (fatty deposits). This reduces circulation and makes it harder for oxygen-rich blood to reach your muscles and skin.

Over time, PAD doesn’t just affect your legs—it can signal widespread vascular disease, which also increases your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Watch Dr. Hill explain PAD in this video:
👉 Understanding Peripheral Artery Disease (Video)

Who Is at Risk for PAD?

PAD can affect anyone, but certain groups are at much higher risk:

• People over age 50
• Smokers or former smokers
• Individuals with diabetes
• Those with high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• People with a family history of vascular disease
• Individuals with obesity or limited physical activity

If you fall into any of these categories, it’s important to talk with a vascular specialist about your risk.

Common Symptoms of PAD

PAD often develops silently, but early warning signs may include:

• Leg pain or cramping when walking (called claudication) that improves with rest
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
• Coldness in one leg compared to the other
• Sores or wounds on your feet or legs that heal slowly or not at all
• Skin discoloration or loss of hair on your legs and feet

Don’t ignore these symptoms—what seems like “just aging” or “poor circulation” could actually be PAD.

Why Early Detection Matters

PAD is a progressive disease. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including:

• Loss of mobility and independence
• Severe pain and disability
• Non-healing wounds and infections
• Risk of amputation
• Increased risk of heart attack and stroke

The good news: PAD can be diagnosed with simple, non-invasive tests and managed effectively with lifestyle changes, medications, and advanced vascular procedures.

FAQs About PAD

Q: Is PAD the same as varicose veins?
No. PAD is caused by blocked arteries, while varicose veins are related to vein valve problems. Both affect circulation but require different treatments.

Q: Can PAD be cured?
PAD can’t be completely cured, but with the right treatment it can be managed effectively to reduce symptoms and prevent progression.

Q: How is PAD diagnosed?
Your vascular specialist may use an ankle-brachial index (ABI) test or an ultrasound to check blood flow in your legs.

Q: What’s the biggest risk factor?
Smoking and diabetes are the two leading risk factors for PAD. Quitting smoking and controlling blood sugar are critical steps.

Take Action: Get Evaluated Today

If you’re experiencing leg pain, cramping, or any of the symptoms above, don’t wait. A vascular evaluation could help protect your circulation and prevent serious complications.

Schedule Your Vascular Screening with Hill Vascular & Vein Center