Chronic lower limb peripheral arterial disease

Abstract

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common, but under-diagnosed, problem encountered in primary care, which can greatly affect quality of life. This article will cover the diagnosis and management of chronic lower limb PAD in primary care. The presenting symptoms and signs of lower limb PAD are described, with an emphasis on the importance of a thorough history and examination, which includes checking for limb pulses and carrying out an ankle brachial pressure index assessment. This is followed by a discussion of PAD risk factor reduction, with an emphasis on promoting healthy lifestyles among patients and improving overall cardiovascular status. Finally, this article highlights when PAD patients should be referred to vascular surgery specialists.