July 31, 2010  Health Library - Your Heart Health This special sponsored feature is provided by Bristol Myers Squibb Understanding Peripheral Arterial Disease What is peripheral arterial disease? Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a result of reduced blood flow to the legs due to atherothrombosis. This often causes pain or cramping in your leg muscles while walking, known as claudication. PAD can be a warning sign of a heart attack or stroke. 12 Risk factors for atherothrombosis: Smoking Diabetes Prior stroke or heart attack High blood pressure or high cholesterol Unhealthy diet Not exercising Stress Being overweight Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol Atherothrombosis: a blood clot in a vital artery If you have peripheral arterial disease, your doctor can advise you on ways to reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke. References: 12. Abramson BL, et al.Canadian Cardiovascular Society Consensus Conference: peripheral arterial disease. Can J Cardiol 2005;21(12):997–1006. back to table of contents previous next