Heart Health

Peripheral artery disease: Leg pain and much more

Arteries are the vital channels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to all the body's tissues. When blockages develop, blood flow slows and tissues suffer. Blockages in the coronary arteries cause angina and heart attacks; blockages in the arteries that supply blood to the brain cause strokes. But the peripheral arteries that carry blood to the legs and other parts of the body are also vulnerable. Heart attacks and strokes get all the publicity, but peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a major problem that deserves more attention and respect — especially since new methods make diagnosis easier and treatment better than ever before.

What is PAD?

Like most strokes and nearly all heart attacks, PAD (formerly called peripheral vascular disease) is a form of atherosclerosis. Peripheral artery disease begins when LDL ("bad") cholesterol passes from the blood into the wall of an artery. Arteries damaged by high blood pressure, smoking, or diabetes are at particular risk. As the cholesterol builds up, it triggers inflammation, which adds to the damage. Unless treatment halts the process, the cholesterol deposit builds up into a plaque, or blockage, that narrows the artery. Mild narrowing may not produce any symptoms, but moderate narrowing may prevent tissues from getting the blood they need to fuel the extra work of exercise. When blockages are severe, the tissues suffer even during rest. Blood clots can add insult to injury by increasing blockages.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss...from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

BONUS! Sign up now and
get a FREE copy of the
Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.