Do I Need A Test For PAD?
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a serious circulatory problem in which the blood vessels that carry blood to your arms, legs, brain or kidneys, become narrowed or clogged. It affects over 8 million Americans, most over the age of 50. It may result in leg discomfort with walking, poor healing of leg sores or ulcers, difficult to control blood pressure or symptoms of stroke. People with PAD are at significantly increase risk for stroke and heart attack. Answers to these questions will determine if you are at risk for PAD and if a vascular exam will help us better assess your vascular health status. This questionnaire is not intended to replace a visit with your doctor.
Please answer “YES” or “NO” to the following questions:
- Do you have foot, calf, buttock, hip or thigh discomfort (aching, fatigue, tingling, cramping or pain) in your muscles when you walk which is relieved by rest?
- Do you experience any pain at rest in your lower leg(s) or feet?
- Do you experience foot or toe pain that often disturbs your sleep?
- Are your toes or feet pale, discolored or bluish?
- Do you have skin wounds or ulcers on your feet or toes that are slow to heal (8-12 weeks)?
- Has your doctor ever told you that you have diminished or absent foot (pedal) pulses?
- Have you suffered a severe injury to the leg(s) or feet?
- Do you have an infection of the leg(s) or feet that may be gangrenous (black skin tissue)?
If you answered YES to any of these questions, you may wish to consult with your doctor about having a PAD screening.
Click here to learn about the non-invasive tests used to screen for PAD.
