Peripheral Artery Disease

Arteries are the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood to various different body parts. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), also known as Peripheral Vascular Disease(PVD) is a blood circulation disorder that arises due to narrowed or blocked arteries. In most cases, plaque formation is reported on the walls of certain arteries which eventually leads to atherosclerosis. These damaged arteries restrict blood flow and limit oxygen supply to the limbs, primarily the legs.

Causes

The most common cause of PAD is a blockage in the arteries, the vessels that carry blood away from the heart. This condition is called atherosclerosis. It happens when things in your bloodstream like fat and cholesterol form plaques that build up in your arteries.