MOUNT VERNON – Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) develops when the arteries that supply blood to the internal organs, arms and legs become completely or partially blocked. This blockage is caused by fatty plaque deposits that harden arteries, called atherosclerosis, and greatly reduces blood flow.

PAD affects nearly 10 million people in the United States and increases their risks of hard-to-heal wounds and associated lower-limb amputations by impeding circulation to the legs. Although the long-term effects of PAD are serious, an astonishing 40 percent of people with PAD do not experience any symptoms.

The Center for Wound Healing, a member of the Healogics network, provides wound care and non-invasive tests for PAD, including the ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, which compares blood pressure in the ankles and arms to diagnose PAD, and ultrasound tests to identify which arteries are blocked.

The experts at the Center for Wound Healing share the following risk factors for PAD:

• Smoking or history of smoking
• Diabetes and uncontrolled blood sugar
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Age above 65 years
• Heart disease
• Excessive weight
• Family history of arterial disease

Advanced PAD results in delayed wound healing and greater risk for limb loss. Twenty-five percent of those with advanced PAD will experience an amputation within one year. People who are at risk for PAD should call the Center for Wound Healing if they develop a wound. Specialized care provided by the Center for Wound Healing can reduce healing times, increase healing rates and significantly lower amputation risks.

For more information on identifying PAD and treating chronic or infected wounds, contact the Center for Wound Healing located in the Knox Medical Pavilion on the Knox Community Hospital campus or call 740-393-HEAL (4325).