Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
PAD occurs when blood vessels in the legs become blocked or narrowed
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a complication of diabetes that happens when blood vessels in the legs become blocked or narrowed due to fat deposits.
The result is reduced blood flow to the feet and legs.
The condition affects 1 in 3 people with diabetes over the age of 50, and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
How does diabetes cause PAD?
Diabetes increases the likelihood of PAD, heart attack and stroke. Having diabetes increases the risk, but smoking, high blood pressure, higher blood cholesterol levels, being overweight, not being physically active, having a history of heart disease and other factors further increase PAD risk.
What are the symptoms of PAD?
Unfortunately, for many people with diabetes PAD does not present any symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Mild leg pain
- Slight trouble walking.
Further symptoms of PAD include:
- Feeling numb or cold in the lower legs
- Infections or sores on the feet or legs
- Extended healing process.
How do doctors diagnose PAD?
Healthcare professionals use the ankle brachial index (ABI) to diagnose PAD.
This test compares blood pressure in the ankle with blood pressure in the arm. If the former is lower then you may have PAD. Other tests to diagnose PAD may include angiograms, ultrasound, and MRI.
How is PAD treated for people with diabetes?
PAD treatment is based around managing cardiovascular risk factors. Some quick ways to treat PAD include quitting smoking, keeping A1c under 7%, lowering blood pressure and LDL cholesterol. Aspiring may also be effective.
Walking and other exercise can both treat and prevent PAD.
