clipped from: www.healthyes.com   

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Peripheral Artery Disease occurs as the arteries in the legs narrow and harden (atherosclerosis). This serious disease is most commonly caused by plaque build-up which can restrict blood flow and cause pain when walking. If left untreated, PAD can cause gangrene and amputation. Additionally, people with PAD are likely to have blocked arteries in other areas of the body, making them 4-6 times more likely to die from Stroke or Heart Attack.