Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked, despite affecting around one in five people over the age of 60.
PAD is a serious circulatory condition that restricts blood flow to the limbs, yet symptoms are still too often dismissed as ageing, arthritis, or general mobility problems.
For our client Nic, the consequences of delayed diagnosis were devastating.
Despite attending around 29 appointments with healthcare professionals with ongoing leg pain and circulation problems, the underlying condition was not diagnosed in time. The delay ultimately resulted in the amputation of the lower part of both of his legs.
Featured yesterday on BBC East Midlands, Nic spoke about his repeated attempts to seek answers and the impact the delayed diagnosis has had on his life.
His story reflects a wider issue that is now receiving increasing national attention.
‘Are Your Legs Killing You?‘
The NHS has launched a new awareness campaign ‘Are Your Legs Killing You?’, aimed at helping both patients and healthcare professionals recognise the symptoms of PAD earlier.
Symptoms can include leg pain when walking, numbness, cramping, slow-healing wounds, or pain at rest. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, reduced blood flow can lead to chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (the most severe form of the disease) causing tissue damage, infection, gangrene, and, in some cases, avoidable amputation.
Early diagnosis can make a life-changing difference.
When PAD is identified sooner, treatment options such as medication, lifestyle changes, and procedures to improve circulation may significantly reduce the risk of serious complications and help preserve mobility and quality of life.
Cases like Nic’s highlight why recognising persistent symptoms – and listening to patients when they repeatedly seek help – is so important.
In Nic’s case, we are helping him pursue a negligence claim against the NHS relating to the delayed diagnosis. We also strongly support campaigns aimed at improving awareness of PAD and encouraging people to seek medical advice earlier when symptoms persist.
The introduction of ‘Jess’s Rule’ is also an important step forward. The patient safety initiative allows patients or families to request a second opinion or urgent review if they have presented three times with the same unresolved symptoms or concerns.
Greater awareness, earlier investigation, and timely diagnosis are essential to helping prevent more patients experiencing avoidable, life-changing harm.
If you are concerned that there has been a delay in diagnosing peripheral artery disease for yourself or a loved one, there may be grounds for a medical negligence claim. Our team has extensive experience supporting clients affected by delayed and missed diagnoses, including cases involving amputation – call or email us today.
