Peripheral Artery Disease and the Ankle Brachial Index

An Overview of Syptoms, Ankle Brachial Index Testing and Treatment of PAD

In the United States, it is estimated that 18 percent of individuals over the age of 70 will suffer from peripheral artery disease, also known as PAD. With these statistics, the onset of PAD will often lead to a decrease in life expectancy by five to 10 years. Understanding what peripheral artery disease is, the importance of the Ankle Brachial Index test and what treatments to expect, will assist those suffering from the extremity pain so often associated with PAD.

In patients suffering from PAD, the most common symptoms lie in the sudden onset of chest pain or pain in the calf, thighs or buttocks. Most often, patients with these extremity and chest pains will seek the advice of a physician and, through a standard medical history and Ankle Brachial Index test, the physician may determine the patient suffers from peripheral artery disease. PAD is a common condition later in life which involves an occlusion of the arteries, most often leading to stroke and heart attack. For advanced stages of PAD, patients may exhibit gangrene, loss of hair in the lower extremities and decreased skin temperature in the extremity affected. When suffering from these advanced symptoms, various treatment options, including surgery, may be indicated. For initial complaints of PAD related symptoms, the doctor must first confirm the diagnosis.