Definition:
Peripheral artery disease, also known as peripheral arterial disease, is a problem in the circulatory system wherein there is a reduction in the blood flow to the limbs because of narrowed arteries.
Diagnosis:
Peripheral artery disease may be diagnosed through the standard physical examination, blood tests, ultrasound, ankle-brachial index and angiography.
Treatment:
Depending on the cause of the disease, treatment includes blood clot, high blood pressure, and cholesterol-lowering medications. Angioplasty may be a necessary treatment in certain cases.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms of Peripheral artery disease include leg pain when walking, numbness of the leg, cramping, and sores on the limbs that won’t heal.
Causes:
The most common cause of peripheral artery disease is atherosclerosis or reduced blood flow because of fatty deposits build up in the artery walls.
