You’re walking through the grocery store or climbing a flight of stairs when it hits—a cramp in your calf or a strange heaviness in your legs. You pause, wait for it to pass, and brush it off. Maybe it’s age. Maybe you’ve just been sitting too much. But what if it’s something your body is quietly trying to warn you about?
Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is more common than most people realize and often goes undiagnosed until the damage has already begun. It happens when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs, most commonly your legs. And while the symptoms can be subtle or easy to overlook, the risks are anything but. Left untreated, PAD can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, or even limb loss.
The good news? A simple screening can catch PAD early, before it becomes a serious threat to your health. Whether you’re noticing symptoms or have risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or high blood pressure, knowing when to get checked could make all the difference. At The Vascular Care Group, we help patients across New England take proactive steps toward a healthier future, starting with awareness, answers, and expert care.
What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?
PAD occurs when fatty deposits (plaque) build up in the arteries, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow, especially to the legs and feet. This poor circulation can lead to pain, weakness, and in more advanced cases, tissue damage.
It’s not just a problem with your legs; PAD is a warning sign that your overall vascular system may be compromised, especially your heart and brain. That’s why early detection matters so much.
Common Symptoms of PAD
Many people dismiss PAD symptoms as part of aging or assume they’re related to overuse or lack of exercise. But ignoring these signs can be dangerous.
Look out for the following symptoms:
- Cramping, aching, or fatigue in the legs during activity that improves with rest (claudication)
- Numbness or coldness in your lower legs or feet
- Sores or wounds on toes, feet, or legs that heal slowly or not at all
- Shiny, discolored, or thin skin on your legs or feet
- Weak or absent pulse in the legs or feet
- Hair loss on your legs or toes
These symptoms may come and go, or they may worsen over time. If you’re experiencing any of them, especially if you live in a high-risk category, it may be time for a PAD screening.
Who Should Get Screened for PAD?
PAD can affect anyone, but it’s more common among adults over 50, especially those with certain lifestyle or health risk factors. You may be a candidate for screening if you:
- Are 50 years or older with a history of smoking
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
- Have a family history of vascular disease
- Experience leg pain when walking or exercising
- Have a history of heart disease or stroke
- Are overweight or sedentary
Living in New England, with its four-season climate and active lifestyle, many residents may not realize their leg fatigue or discomfort isn’t just about age or weather; it could be vascular.
What to Expect During a PAD Screening
PAD screenings are non-invasive, quick, and painless. The most common test is the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), which compares your ankles to your arms’ blood pressure. A significant difference may suggest poor blood flow.
Other tests your provider may recommend include:
- Ultrasound imaging to check for narrowed arteries
- Doppler tests to assess blood flow
- Blood tests to evaluate cholesterol and glucose levels
These screenings can usually be done right in the office, and results are often available the same day.
Why Early Detection Is So Important
PAD doesn’t just affect your legs; it’s a red flag for systemic vascular disease. Detecting it early can reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, and long-term mobility loss. In many cases, PAD can be managed with:
- Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, quitting smoking)
- Medications to lower blood pressure or cholesterol
- Minimally invasive procedures to restore blood flow
The earlier you intervene, the less likely you are to face serious complications. That’s why screening is recommended for anyone at risk, even if you’re not experiencing obvious symptoms.
Get Expert Vascular Care Across New England
If you’re wondering whether it’s time for a PAD screening, don’t wait until symptoms become severe. At The Vascular Care Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating vascular conditions like PAD in communities across New England.
With expert vascular specialists, advanced in-office diagnostics, and a patient-first approach, we’re here to support your long-term health, starting with answers. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or simply want peace of mind, our team is ready to help.
Call today to schedule your vascular consultation or PAD screening. Visit us to find a location near you.