What Is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)? Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Peripheral Artery Disease commonly known as PAD is a circulatory condition that affects millions of adults yet often goes undiagnosed for years. PAD occurs when arteries that supply blood to the legs become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup. This reduces blood flow and can lead to pain discomfort and more serious complications if left untreated.
One of the biggest challenges with PAD is that it can be silent in its early stages. Many people assume their symptoms are simply part of getting older or the result of being out of shape. Understanding the basics of PAD and knowing the early warning signs can make a meaningful difference in long term vascular health.
Understanding how PAD develops
PAD is most often caused by atherosclerosis which is the gradual buildup of fatty deposits inside the arteries. Over time these deposits narrow the vessels and limit circulation especially during activity when the muscles need more oxygen rich blood.
This condition is closely linked to risk factors such as diabetes high blood pressure high cholesterol smoking and a family history of vascular disease. People with heart disease or a prior stroke are also at higher risk of developing PAD.
According to William Julien MD board certified vascular interventional physician and practice president at South Florida Vascular Associates PAD is frequently underrecognized because symptoms can be subtle at first and easy to dismiss. Early awareness allows for timely evaluation and treatment before the condition progresses.
Early symptoms that should not be ignored
The most common early sign of PAD is leg pain or cramping that occurs while walking and improves with rest. This is known as claudication and happens because the muscles are not receiving enough blood during activity. The discomfort may feel like tightness heaviness or fatigue in the calves thighs or hips.
Other early symptoms may include changes in how the legs or feet feel or heal. These signs may come and go which can make them easy to overlook.
- Leg fatigue or weakness during walking or exercise
- Coldness or numbness in the lower legs or feet
- Slow healing sores or wounds on the feet or toes
- Skin color changes or hair loss on the legs
Not everyone with PAD experiences pain. Some people have no noticeable symptoms at all until the disease becomes more advanced. This is why PAD is often described as a silent condition.
Why early detection matters
When PAD is identified early many patients can manage symptoms and slow progression with lifestyle changes medications and minimally invasive treatments. Early care can improve walking comfort protect limb health and reduce the risk of serious complications such as critical limb ischemia.
Advanced treatment options including angioplasty stenting and atherectomy are designed to restore blood flow while minimizing recovery time. Many patients return to normal activities within days depending on the procedure and individual health factors.
Dr Julien treats most patients in a sophisticated endovascular surgery suite at South Florida Vascular Associates allowing for advanced care in an outpatient setting that helps patients avoid hospitalization whenever possible.
When to see a vascular specialist
If you experience leg discomfort with walking, notice changes in your feet or have risk factors for PAD, it is important to seek evaluation rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen. A vascular specialist can perform noninvasive testing to assess circulation and determine whether PAD is present.
South Florida Vascular Associates proudly serves patients in Coconut Creek Palm Beach and Plantation Florida providing expert care focused on early diagnosis education and personalized treatment planning.
Take the next step toward healthier circulation
PAD does not have to limit your mobility or quality of life. Recognizing the early signs and seeking timely care can make a lasting difference. If you have concerns about leg pain walking discomfort or circulation changes the team at South Florida Vascular Associates is here to help.
Request a consultation online today to take the first step toward understanding your vascular health and exploring appropriate treatment options.
Dr. William Julien, MD, is a nationally recognized, board-certified vascular interventional physician and President of South Florida Vascular Associates, known for advancing minimally invasive, outpatient vascular care. Trained at top institutions and fellowship-trained in interventional radiology, he brings deep expertise to the treatment of complex conditions including abdominal aortic aneurysm, PAD, BPH, uterine fibroids, and venous disease. A former chief and director of interventional radiology for multi-hospital systems, Dr. Julien is actively involved in device trials, national endovascular education, and leadership within major professional societies. He also pioneered one of the nation’s first advanced outpatient endovascular surgery suites, reinforcing his role as an innovator shaping the future of vascular intervention.
