The following information was taken from the American Heart Association
The most common symptoms of PAD are cramping, pain or tiredness in the leg or hip muscles while walking or climbing stairs.
 Typically, this pain goes away with rest and returns when you walk again.
Many people mistake the symptoms of PAD for something else. PAD often goes undiagnosed by healthcare professionals. People with peripheral arterial disease have four to five times more risk of heart attack or stroke. Left untreated, PAD can lead to gangrene and amputation.
Added risks for PAD: If you smoke, you have an especially high risk for PAD. If you have diabetes, you have an especially high risk for PAD. People with high blood pressure or high cholesterol are at risk for PAD.
The good news for PAD patients: PAD is easily diagnosed in a simple, painless way. You can take control by leading a heart-healthy lifestyle and following the recommendations of your healthcare professional. Most cases of PAD can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.
Here at Family Medicine your health is our first concern. We are able to complete many of the tests explained in the links below. Some of these tests include the lipid panel, complete physicals, and the test explained as the ABI (ankle brachial index test). Click here to see a demonstration of the ABI test.
More Information from
American Heart Association
The Mayo Clinic
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
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