At Central Coast Vein and Vascular Clinic, we specialize in treating conditions that affect your circulatory system—and few are as impactful and often overlooked as Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). While PAD is commonly associated with leg pain or poor circulation, it’s also a powerful indicator of broader cardiovascular issues, including heart attack and stroke risk.
Understanding PAD and its deeper implications can help you take proactive steps to protect not just your legs, but your life.
What Is PAD?
Peripheral Artery Disease is a condition where the arteries that carry blood to your limbs—particularly the legs—become narrowed due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), or calcification. This reduces blood flow, leading to symptoms such as:
- Leg pain when walking (claudication) – that is relieved by rest
- Numbness or weakness
- Cold feet or toes
- Slow-healing wounds or ulcers
- Skin discoloration or hair loss on the lower legs
But PAD is more than a localized problem. It’s a systemic disease that often signals similar blockages in the arteries supplying the heart and brain.
Why PAD Is a Warning Sign for Your Heart
PAD and heart disease are closely linked. In fact, having PAD means:
- A 4 to 5 times higher risk of heart attack or stroke
- Increased likelihood of coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Greater risk for serious complications, including limb-threatening ischemia
PAD isn’t just a circulation issue—it’s a whole-body vascular issue, and early diagnosis is crucial for preventing life-altering outcomes.
How We Help at Central Coast Vein and Vascular Clinic
As a specialized vascular clinic, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing PAD. We offer:
Expert Vascular Assessments
Through non-invasive testing such as Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), Toe-Brachial Index (TBI) and arterial vascular ultrasound, we evaluate the severity and location of arterial blockages.
Customized Treatment Plans
From lifestyle counseling to advanced medical therapies and minimally invasive procedures (such as angioplasty, athrectomy and/or stenting), we tailor care to each patient’s needs—whether you’re managing early-stage PAD or more advanced disease.
Ongoing Monitoring & Prevention
Because PAD is often progressive, we focus on long-term vascular health with regular follow-ups, risk factor management (including smoking cessation, blood pressure control, and diabetes management), and support for heart-healthy living.
Your Legs Are Talking—Is Your Heart Listening?
It’s easy to dismiss leg pain or fatigue as part of aging, but persistent symptoms may be warning signs of something more serious. If you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, or a family history of vascular disease, don’t ignore the signs.
Peripheral Artery Disease is treatable, and early intervention can save your limbs and your life.
Take the First Step Toward Better Vascular Health
At Central Coast Vein and Vascular Clinic, our mission is to restore healthy circulation and protect your heart and vascular system for the long run. If you’re experiencing symptoms of PAD or have concerns about your vascular health, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your vascular evaluation
Protect your legs. Protect your heart. Let’s take care of your vascular health—together.