Peripheral artery disease(PAD) can be described as a subtle disease that has a great knack for stealth.

“PAD can be very tricky. If patients experience symptoms at all, they frequently mistake them for something else. Scarily enough, even healthcare professionals sometimes have trouble diagnosing PAD,”Dr. Emile Mohler is director of vascular medicine at University of Pennsylvania Health System. He also serves as spokesperson for Vascular Disease Foundation. (VDF).

VDF has assumed the burden of educating people about PAD and other vascular conditions. This obscure disease is often not symptom-free, and the lack of awareness only makes it more mysterious.

Atherosclerosis refers to the narrowing or hardening of the arteries in the lower legs. Adults can experience a lack of symptoms that indicate their lower limbs need blood flow.

Most common signs of a circulatory problem include cramping, weakness or pain in the legs or hips while exercising or walking. Many people blame the pain on arthritis, old age, and neglect it. However, PAD continues its deprivation of oxygen to your feet and legs. Talk about sneaky.

Undiagnosed PAD can lead to skin ulcers or gangrene that will need to be amputated. People with PAD are at risk for stroke and heart attack up to four to five times as often.

However, there are positive aspects to PAD. Patients can stop further progression by following the relatively easy treatment steps. Some symptoms can even be reversed.

Doctors will often recommend lifestyle changes that include a healthier diet and increased exercise. Exercise will increase blood flow and lower blood pressure. Some medications might be recommended.

Do you have a higher chance of developing PAD or are you more at risk? Continue reading to learn more:

* If you smoke, you have an especially high risk for PAD.

* If you have diabetes, you have an especially high risk for PAD.

* If you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, you are at risk for PAD.

* If you’re above the age of 50 and your family has a history of atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease, you’re at risk for PAD.

Have more questions? Have more questions? www.vasculardisease.orgTo find the answers.