Introduction
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when the arteries in the extremities (feet, legs, hands, and arms) become clogged with a fatty substance called plaque. The build up of plaque causes the arteries to become narrow and hard, which obstructs blood flow. This hardening of the arteries is called atherosclerosis. (Atherosclerosis that affects arteries to the heart and brain is the major process leading to heart disease and stroke.)
PAD is also called peripheral vascular disease.
Atherosclerosis of the extremities is a disease of the peripheral blood vessels. It is characterized by narrowing and hardening of the arteries that supply the legs and feet. The narrowing causes a decrease in blood flow. Symptoms include leg pain, numbness, cold legs or feet, and muscle pain in the thighs, calves or feet.
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