Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Peripheral Arterial Disease is artery disease that obstructs the blood flow to peripheral areas of the body (everything outside of the heart and brain). It most commonly affects the legs, kidneys, abdomen or arms. Untreated PAD increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. It is most common in those over age 65 or those over 50 who have smoked or have diabetes. A lack of regular exercise, high blood pressure, obesity and family history of artery disease also increase risk for PAD.