PAD Warning Signs
Know the Warning Signs of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) -
One of the Deadliest Diseases You’ve Never Heard Of
More than 8 million Americans suffer from peripheral arterial disease, or PAD. Just as a heart attack is caused by a blocked artery in the heart, PAD is the same kind of blockage – only it takes place in the arm, leg or other part of the body.
PAD is a leading cause for amputation, and puts you at risk for heart attack, stroke and death. It can build up over a lifetime, and the symptoms may not become obvious until later in life.
The first noticeable symptom of PAD may be a painful cramping in the calf, thigh or buttocks that occurs regularly when you walk or move, but that goes away when you’re at rest. This is called intermittent claudication. The pain can be severe enough to limit your ability to participate in activities you enjoy, such as golfing or chasing after grandchildren.
Other symptoms of advanced PAD include:
- Burning or aching pain in the feet and toes while resting (especially at night while lying flat)
- Cool skin in the feet
- Redness or color changes in the skin
- Toe and foot sores that do not heal.
But fully half of people who have PAD experience no symptoms at all. That’s one of the reasons it’s so dangerous. Learn who is at risk for PAD and its treatment
For questions or more information about PAD
Contact us , chat online with a nurse or call the Miller Family Heart & Vascular Institute Resource & Information Nurse at 216.445.9288 or toll-free at 866.289.6911. We would be happy to help you. For an appointment with a Cleveland Clinic vascular specialist, call toll-free 800.223.2273, ext. 5-8022 or locally, 216.445.8022.
Learn more about Peripheral Arterial Disease in Women.
This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.
Reviewed: 11/08
This information is provided by Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace
the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider.
Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.
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