PAD occurs when arteries in the body become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, reducing blood flow to the legs, arms, brain, or organs. As a result, PAD may, for example cause leg muscle pain when walking and lead to disability, amputation, and a poor quality of life. The blocked arteries found in people with PAD are an indication that they are likely to also have narrowed arteries to the heart and the brain. PAD is a powerful warning sign of existing cardiovascular disease and raises the likelihood of having a heart attack or stroke.