Final answer:
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs due to atherosclerosis resulting in narrowed arteries, primarily in the legs, causing symptoms like pain when walking. Atherosclerosis itself involves plaque buildup inside the arteries, influenced by diet, lifestyle, and other health conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The disease that develops due to widespread atherosclerotic plaque buildup in the arteries outside the heart, particularly in the legs, is known as Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). The accumulation of plaque, which includes cell debris, cholesterol, and other substances, narrows the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and potentially causing pain especially during walking. This pain, referred to as intermittent claudication, tends to resolve with rest. PAD can also lead to other symptoms like skin ulcers and poor growth of nails and hair in the affected limbs.
Atherosclerosis is the specific process where plaque builds up within the arterial walls and can lead to several conditions, including PAD, coronary artery disease, and others. Critical risk factors for developing PAD and atherosclerosis include obesity, poor nutrition, a high-fat diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and pre-existing conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.