Peripheral Vascular Disease Q: Can leg pain be a sign of heart problems? A: Many people don't realize when it comes to your cardiovascular system, it's important to pay attention to your legs. PVD occurs when plaque build arteries reduces blood flow to the legs. This sticky plaque can lead to blockages in vessels of your heart. Risk factors include diabetes and smoking. The most common PAD symptom is leg pain while walking, non- healing leg wounds. If left untreated, PAD increases risk for stroke or heart attack. Don't hesitate to have symptoms evaluated. Remember, best prevention is early detection. up in C. Michael Brown, M.D. Jefferson Cardiology 1000 Park Place Drive Washington, PA 15301 412-469-1500 Peripheral Vascular Disease Q: Can leg pain be a sign of heart problems? A: Many people don't realize when it comes to your cardiovascular system, it's important to pay attention to your legs. PVD occurs when plaque build arteries reduces blood flow to the legs. This sticky plaque can lead to blockages in vessels of your heart. Risk factors include diabetes and smoking. The most common PAD symptom is leg pain while walking, non- healing leg wounds. If left untreated, PAD increases risk for stroke or heart attack. Don't hesitate to have symptoms evaluated. Remember, best prevention is early detection. up in C. Michael Brown, M.D. Jefferson Cardiology 1000 Park Place Drive Washington, PA 15301 412-469-1500