DEFINITION

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an occlusive vascular condition that

affects up to 15% of the population with patients typically exhibiting reduced
peripheral blood flow, decreased walking ability and poor quality of life. 3
Peripheral artery disease is circulatory problem associated with pain in the limbs
due to reduced blood flow as a result of blocked or narrowed artery passage. For
this student project, we are talking about claudication. Claudication is referred to
the pain that occurs due to decreased blood flow. This is a typical symptom of
peripheral artery disease that usually occurs while walking. 2 There are several
types of claudication namely intermittent vascular claudication, neurogenic
claudication and jaw claudication. For this student project, we will be focusing on
intermittent vascular claudication.3

ETIOLOGY

Intermittent claudication results from the blockage of arteries. As a result,

atherosclerosis is the underlying cause of claudication.1

RISK FACTORS

There are several risk factors associated with intermittent claudication.

These risk factors include diet consisting of high amounts of cholesterol and
saturated fat and sodium together with low levels of fibre and folate. 2, 3 Inadequate
lifestyle also increases the risk of contracting intermittent claudication. These
include lack of exercise and incorrect eating habits. Smoking is also associated
with increased risk of peripheral artery disease. 3 As a result, claudication is the
symptom of blockage of the peripheral arteries.

1. Hamburg N, Creager M. Pathophysiology of Intermittent

Claudication in Peripheral Artery Disease. Circulation Journal.
2017;81(3):281-289.
2. Preu A, Schaafs L, Werncke T, Steffen I, Hamm B, Elgeti T. Run-
Off Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) for Discriminating
 the Underlying Causes of Intermittent Claudication. PLOS ONE.
2016;11(4):e0152780.
3. Leicht A, Crowther R, Golledge J. Influence of Regular Exercise on
Body Fat and Eating Patterns of Patients with Intermittent
Claudication. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
2015;16(5):11339-11354.