Did you know September is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month?

Did you know September is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month?

So, what is PAD?

PAD happens when arteries that carry blood to your legs become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow.

And yes, high LDL cholesterol is one of the major drivers of the atherosclerosis that causes PAD.

The classic symptom = Leg pain when walking that improves with rest.

But PAD can be sneaky. Some people have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.

Watch for:
• Cold feet
• Shiny or smooth skin
• Hair loss on the legs
• Numbness or weakness
• Sores or wounds that don’t heal
• Leg pain with walking

PAD is more than a leg problem. It’s a marker of systemic atherosclerosis and is associated with higher risks of heart attack, stroke, and serious limb complications.

If you’re over 50 or have risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, or high LDL cholesterol, talk with your doctor if you have symptoms.

One simple ultrasound test that can help detect PAD is the ankle-brachial index (ABI) a comparison of blood pressure in your ankle and arm.

Don’t wait for a wound to become a warning. Know your legs. Know your vascular health.

#PADAwareness#PeripheralArteryDisease#HeartHealth#VascularHealth