2. Peripheral Artery Disease (AHA)
The AHA identifies peripheral artery disease (PAD) as a manifestation of systemic atherosclerosis. PAD reduces blood flow to the legs and feet due to narrowed arteries.
Reduced blood flow leads to:
Delayed wound healing
Increased infection risk
Higher likelihood of ulcers
In severe cases, tissue death (gangrene)
When neuropathy and PAD occur together — a common scenario in people with diabetes — the risk of serious foot complications increases dramatically.
