Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death among adults in the UK as stated by the British Heart Foundation. 1 in 20 people over 55 have some degree of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), often referred to as hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis.
This narrowing of the blood vessels in the legs is caused by the build up of fatty plaque and is a strong predictor of heart disease. Peripheral Arterial Disease may show up in leg arteries before there are any signs or symptoms. Many people experience discomfort while walking that is relieved by rest, but are unaware that it is due to blocked arteries.
Arteries become narrowed and blood flow
decreases in atherosclerosis.
