Peripheral arterial disease, or PAD as it is often shortened, occurs when the arteries in the legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, otherwise known as plaque. The build-up of plaque causes the arteries to harden and narrow, a process called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis in the leg arteries reduces blood flow to the legs and feet, resulting in poor circulation.
PAD occurs most often in the arteries in the legs, but it also can affect other arteries that carry blood outside the heart. This includes arteries that go to the aorta, the brain, the arms, the kidneys and the stomach. When arteries inside the heart are hardened or narrowed, it is called coronary artery disease or cardiovascular disease.
Like other diseases related to the heart, PAD can be improved with lifestyle changes, medications or, if needed, endovascular or surgical procedures at our heart hospital in Dallas.