DISEASES AND CONDITIONS

Understanding Peripheral Artery Disease

March 21, 2017

Understanding Peripheral Arterial Disease

Cross section of healthy peripheral artery.

Peripheral arteries deliver oxygen-rich blood to the tissues outside the heart. As you age, your arteries become stiffer and thicker. In addition, risk factors, such as smoking and high cholesterol, can damage the artery lining. This allows a buildup of fat and other materials (plaque) to form within the artery walls. The buildup of plaque narrows the space inside the artery and sometimes blocks blood flow. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) happens when blood flow through the arteries is reduced because of plaque buildup. It often happens in the legs and feet, but can also happen elsewhere in the body. If this buildup happens in the a large artery in the neck (carotid artery), it can be a major contributor to stroke.

A healthy artery

An artery is a muscular tube that carries oxgen rich blood and nutrients from the heart to the rest of the body. It has a smooth lining and flexible walls that allow blood to pass freely. When active, muscles need more oxygen. This increases blood flow. Healthy arteries can adapt to meet this need.

A damaged artery

Cross section of peripheral artery with damaged lining.

PAD begins when the lining of an artery is damaged. This is often because of risk factors, such as smoking, older age, or diabetes. Plaque then starts to form within the artery wall. At this stage, blood flows normally, so you’re not likely to have symptoms.

A narrowed artery

Cross section of peripheral artery narrowed by plaque buildup.

If plaque continues to build up, the space inside the artery narrows. The artery walls become less able to expand. The artery still provides enough blood and oxygen to your muscles during rest. But when you’re active, the increased demand for blood can’t be met. As a result, your leg may cramp or ache when you walk.

A blocked artery

Cross section of peripheral artery blocked by plaque and blood clot.

An artery can become blocked by plaque or by a blood clot lodged in a narrowed section. When this happens, oxygen can’t reach the muscle below the blockage. Then you may feel pain when lying down or when you are not active (rest pain). This type of pain is especially common at night when you’re lying flat. In time, the affected tissue can die. This can lead to the loss of a toe or foot.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). The Society for Vascular Surgery

Reviewed By:  

Mancini, Mary, MD,Sather, Rita, RN