The Five P's of Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a serious condition that affects more than 8.5 million Americans. It can lead to a number of health complications, including heart attack, stroke, and even death. To help people better understand and manage their PAD, it's important to understand the five P's of PAD.
Pain: Pain is a common symptom of PAD and can be felt in the legs, hips, buttocks, or feet. It may be described as a cramping or burning sensation and can be worse when walking or running.
Pallor: The skin on the affected limb may appear pale or white due to a lack of oxygenated blood.
Pulse: A weakened or absent pulse may be present in the affected limb due to a narrowing or blockage of the artery.
Pulselessness: In severe cases of PAD, a pulse may not be present in the affected limb.
Paresthesia: Paresthesia is a sensation of tingling or numbness in the affected limb.
By understanding the five P's of PAD, patients can better recognize the symptoms and seek appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention can help to reduce the risk of health complications associated with PAD.