- Painful cramps in the hips, thighs, or calf muscles
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Discoloration of a leg
- Sores on toes, feet, or legs
- Coldness in the foot or lower leg
- Reduction in growth of toenails
- Shiny leg skin
- Reduction in hair growth on legs
- Weak pulse in legs or feet
- Erectile dysfunction
Peripheral Artery Disease Symptoms
Do You Need Peripheral Artery Disease Help?
It can be tempting to chalk up leg pain to the standard effects of aging. However, this can lead to a worsening of symptoms. Contact a physician if you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with peripheral artery disease.
However, there are a few groups of people that should seek advice from a doctor even if they aren't experiencing any symptoms. This includes those over 50 with a history of smoking or diabetes, as well as those under 50 who have any peripheral artery disease risk factors such ad diabetes, obesity, or high blood pressure. Also, people who are over 65 may need to be screened.
Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) occurs when arteries in the arms, legs, stomach, or head become narrowed. This leads to decreased blood or oxygen flow.
Peripheral Arterial Disease Symptoms Include
- Discomfort or pain in your legs when you walk that goes away when you rest (claudication)
- Pain in the feel or toes when resting (critical limb ischemia)
- Severe forms of the disease can lead to sores on toes and feet
What does Treatment for Peripheral Arterial Disease look like?
Treatments for Peripheral Arterial Disease vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. Mild cases can be resolved with medication and exercise. However, more severe cases can be treated with minimally invasive options such as office based angioplasty/stents or traditional "open" reconstruction such as a bypass.
Resources
For more information click here: Peripheral Arterial Disease