What is Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)?

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a narrowing of the interior of the peripheral arteries, which transport blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The most common type is lower-extremity PAD, which causes decreased blood flow to the legs and feet.

What Are the Causes of PAD?

Atherosclerosis: This reduction in blood flow is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits (plaque) build up in the artery walls, leading to decreased oxygen and nutrient supply to the muscles and tissues.

What Are the Risk Factors of PAD?

1. Age: The risk increases with age, especially in individuals over 50.
2. Diabetes: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing PAD.
3. Smoking: Tobacco use is a major risk factor for PAD.
4. High cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries.
5. High blood pressure: Hypertension can damage blood vessels, leading to impaired blood flow.

What Are the Symptoms of PAD?

PAD may present with a variety of symptoms, but some individuals may remain asymptomatic. Common symptoms include: 

1. Leg pain or cramping: This often occurs during physical activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, and disappears after a few minutes of rest (intermittent claudication).
2. Weak or absent pulse: A weak or absent pulse in the feet can indicate reduced blood flow.
3. Wounds or sores: Slow-healing wounds or sores on the toes, feet, or legs may occur due to poor circulation. 
4. Changes in skin colour: The skin on the legs or feet may appear pale or have a bluish tint (cyanosis). In some cases, the skin might look shiny or smooth.

How Is PAD Diagnosed?

PAD is diagnosed through a combination of a medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests if necessary.

Your doctor will first ask about your general health and symptoms before conducting a thorough physical examination. Diagnosis is made based on your reported symptoms, physical examination, and investigations.

Your doctor may request one or more of the following tests:

1. Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI): This non-invasive test compares blood pressure in the ankle with that in the arm to identify any blockage in the arteries.
2. Ultrasound: Doppler ultrasound may be used to visualise blood flow in the arteries and identify any blockages.
3. Angiography: In certain cases, imaging tests, such as CT or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), may be conducted to get a detailed view of the arteries. A vascular surgeon in Malaysia may interpret these results to determine the best treatment approach.

What Treatment Options are Available?

Treatment for PAD focuses on improving symptoms, reducing risk factors, and preventing complications:

1. Lifestyle Changes

   Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly impact PAD management. This includes:

   • Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for PAD, and quitting can slow disease progression and lower the risk of cardiovascular events.
   • Regular exercise: Walking helps improve circulation in the legs by encouraging blood flow.
   • Healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help control risk factors like cholesterol and blood pressure.

2. Medications

Several medications may be prescribed to manage PAD, including:

• Antiplatelets: Can help reduce the risk of blood clots.
• Statins: Can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
• Antihypertensives: If you have high blood pressure, antihypertensives may be prescribed to keep blood pressure within a normal range.

3. Surgical Options

   In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary, such as:

   • Angioplasty: A small balloon is inserted into the narrowed artery via a catheter and inflated to widen the artery. 
   • Bypass Surgery: In more severe cases, bypass surgery may be performed where a healthy blood vessel, usually from another part of the body is used to reroute blood flow around the blocked artery.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)?

   PAD is a circulatory condition caused by narrowed arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the limbs.

2. What are the common symptoms of PAD?

   Common symptoms include leg pain during activity, weak pulses, and slow-healing wounds.

3. How is PAD diagnosed?

   Diagnosis involves physical exams, the ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI), and imaging tests like ultrasounds.

4. What treatment options are available for PAD?

   Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, and surgical procedures, depending on severity.

5. Can PAD lead to serious complications?

   Yes, untreated PAD can result in severe complications, including critical limb ischemia and increased risk of heart attack or stroke. 

Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a serious circulatory condition that can significantly affect your quality of life. If you experience symptoms such as leg pain during physical activity, or slow-healing wounds, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications.

If you have questions about PAD or need a thorough evaluation, contact us to book an appointment at your nearest Pantai Hospital to schedule a heart screening or consultation with the team of expert heart and vascular specialists at Pantai Hospitals to begin your journey towards better heart health today.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.