September is PAD Awareness Month.

When people think about circulation problems, they often picture severe leg pain or trouble walking. But peripheral artery disease (PAD) doesn’t always announce itself so clearly. In fact, many people have PAD for years without realizing it because they have few symptoms or none at all.

That can be a problem because PAD is more than just a leg condition. It’s a sign that plaque has built up inside your arteries, reducing blood flow. Left untreated, it can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and serious problems with your legs and feet. Knowing who is at risk and what signs to watch for can help you catch it early.

This condition may happen without you realizing it. Click here to learn why testing is important.