Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a circulatory condition that results when the arteries to the body's extremities become narrowed. This reduces circulation and blood flow to the limbs. Most often, this condition results from fat deposits in the arteries. Peripheral artery disease can also restrict blood flow to the heart and brain as well. Early treatment and intervention is vital to preventing the progression of the condition.

Symptoms

It's rare for people with PAD to experience symptoms. However, the most common symptom experienced is pain in the legs, especially when walking. This is often caused by muscle pain due to cramping in the area. The cramps are triggered by activity, such as walking. This generally resolves after a few minutes of rest. This pain can be experienced in multiple areas of the leg. Although the pain is most common in the calf, it depends on where the clogged artery is located in the leg. The severity of the clog usually determines the amount of pain experienced.

Although it's rare, other symptoms are associated with this condition, including numbness or tingling in the legs. Other symptoms include cold sensations in the legs and feet, persistent sores on the legs and feet, and changes in skin color of the legs. Other reported symptoms include hair loss on the legs and feet, sudden changes to toe nails, and pain in the legs with lack of mobility.

Risk Factors

Although peripheral artery disease can occur in anyone, certain risk factors can raise a persons risk for developing the condition. Smoking, diabetes, and obesity have shown to increase the risk for PAD. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are also associated with the condition. As people age, their chances of developing the condition increase. This condition also appears to be hereditary as well. While all these factors can cause the condition, the greatest risks are smoking and diabetes.

If you experience any of these symptoms or feel you may be at risk for PAD, it's best to seek assistance from a medical professional for accurate diagnosis. Early diagnosis is vital for treating the condition and preventing it from worsening. If left untreated, serious complications can occur. Risk of PAD left untreated include loss of limbs. Other more serious risks include heart attach and stroke.

References:
AmericanHeart.orgMayoClinic.com