Overview

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when the blood vessels (arteries) that supply blood to the legs, belly, pelvis, arms, or neck get narrow or blocked. This reduces blood flow to that area. The legs are affected most often.

PAD is often caused by fatty buildup (plaque) in the arteries. This buildup is also called "hardening" of the arteries. Your risk of PAD increases if you smoke or have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of PAD.

Many people don't have symptoms. If you do have symptoms, you may have weak or tired legs, difficulty walking or balancing, or pain. If you have pain, you might feel a tight, aching, or squeezing pain in the calf, foot, thigh, or buttock that occurs during exercise. The pain usually gets worse during exercise and goes away when you rest. If PAD gets worse, you may have symptoms of poor blood flow, such as leg pain when you rest.

Medicines and lifestyle changes may help your symptoms and lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. In some cases surgery or other treatment is needed. It is important that you follow up with your doctor.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Do not smoke. Smoking can make PAD worse. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• If you take a blood thinner, such as aspirin, be sure to get instructions about how to take your medicine safely. Blood thinners can cause serious bleeding problems.
• Ask your doctor if a cardiac rehab program is right for you. Cardiac rehab can help you make lifestyle changes. In cardiac rehab, a team of health professionals provides education and support to help you make new, healthy habits.
• Eat heart-healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean meats, and low-fat or non-fat dairy foods. Limit sodium, sugar, and alcohol.
• If your doctor recommends it, get more exercise. Walking is a good choice. Bit by bit, increase the amount you walk every day. Try for at least 2½ hours a week. If you have symptoms when you exercise, ask your doctor about a special exercise program that may help relieve your symptoms.
• Stay at a healthy weight. Lose weight if you need to.
• Take good care of your feet.
  • Treat cuts and scrapes on your legs right away. Poor blood flow prevents (or slows) quick healing of even small cuts or scrapes. This is even more important if you have diabetes.
  • Avoid shoes that are too tight or that rub your feet. Shoes should be comfortable and fit well.
  • Avoid socks or stockings that are tight enough to leave elastic-band marks on your legs. Tight socks can make circulation problems worse.
  • Keep your feet clean and moisturized to prevent drying and cracking. Place cotton or lamb's wool between your toes to prevent rubbing and to absorb moisture.
  • If you have a sore on your leg or foot, keep it dry and cover it with a non-stick bandage until you see your doctor.
• Avoid infections such as COVID-19, colds, and influenza (flu). Get the flu vaccine every year. Get a pneumococcal vaccine. If you have had one before, ask your doctor whether you need another dose. Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines.