Peripheral Arterial Disease

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a burning sensation (Moriarty). What could be wrong?
You could have peripheral arterial disease, also known as PAD. The Merck Manual of Medical Information defines peripheral arterial disease as "a chronic condition in which arteries that supply blood to the legs become blocked by a buildup of plaque."
PAD is a form of atherosclerosis, a progressive disease characterized by fatty deposits in the inner layer of the arteries, which gradually narrows the artery (Merck). Millions of people have PAD, and unfortunately, most of them are unaware that they have the disease. I chose to report on this disease because I have a relative with a form of PAD. I have witnessed the symptoms (primarily the blue and white extremities) and wanted to learn more about this disease so I could provide information and help in finding treatment. Like so many Americans, my relative assumed she was just "getting older" and that's why her circulation seemed so poor. It wasn't until happening across a ...

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(such as cold temperatures or emotional trauma). The spasms may last for only a few minutes or they may last for hours (Moriarty).
Buerger's disease is considered an organic peripheral arterial disease because in this disease there are structural changes in the blood vessels, such as tissue damage or inflammation. For someone with Buerger's disease, an obstruction of the small to medium-sized arteries (usually caused by inflammation) results in coldness, numbness, tingling, or burning in the feet and legs. There may also be muscle cramps in the legs and the arches of the feet. Although the feet or hands feel cold, these extremities may also perspire and turn bluish in color. In most ...

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