Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common but often underdiagnosed condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when fatty deposits, or plaques, build up in the arteries, reducing blood flow to the limbs, most commonly the legs. While PAD may initially seem like a minor inconvenience, its implications can be severe, potentially leading to limb loss, stroke, or heart attack if left untreated. Recognizing the signs of PAD early and seeking timely medical care can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

Understanding PAD

PAD typically develops gradually, and its symptoms often mimic other conditions, making it easy to overlook. However, it serves as a red flag for systemic atherosclerosis, indicating that the arteries in other parts of the body, including the heart and brain, may also be compromised. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve overall vascular health.

Here are the top five signs of PAD that warrant immediate medical attention:

1. Leg Pain During Exercise (Claudication)

One of the hallmark signs of PAD is intermittent claudication or leg pain that occurs during activities like walking or climbing stairs but subsides with rest. This pain typically stems from inadequate blood flow to the muscles during exercise. Patients often describe the sensation as cramping, aching, or fatigue, usually in the calves, thighs, or buttocks.

While occasional leg discomfort might not seem alarming, recurring pain during physical activity could indicate a significant blockage in the arteries.

2. Non-Healing Wounds or Sores

Persistent wounds or ulcers, especially on the feet or lower legs, are a critical sign of PAD. Reduced blood flow impairs the body’s ability to heal injuries, leaving even minor cuts or blisters vulnerable to infection.

If you notice a sore that hasn’t healed within a few weeks, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation. These wounds can progress to more severe conditions, including gangrene, if left untreated.

3. Cold or Numb Feet and Toes

Poor circulation due to PAD often causes extremities, such as the feet and toes, to feel colder than the rest of the body. You may also notice numbness or tingling in these areas, indicating nerve or tissue compromise.

Persistent coldness or numbness should never be ignored, especially if one foot is noticeably colder than the other.

4. Discolored Skin or Shiny Skin on the Legs

Changes in skin color, such as a bluish or pale hue, can signal inadequate blood flow. Additionally, skin on the legs may appear shiny, tight, or thin, often accompanied by hair loss. These subtle changes are telltale signs of vascular insufficiency and warrant further investigation.

5. Weak or Absent Pulse in the Feet

Healthcare providers often check for a pulse in the feet to assess blood flow. A weak or absent pulse may indicate severe arterial blockage. While this sign might not be obvious to you, any noticeable swelling or discomfort in the feet should prompt a visit to your doctor for a thorough examination.

6. Pain at Rest, Especially at Night

As PAD progresses, you may experience pain even while at rest, particularly in the feet or toes. This symptom, known as critical limb ischemia (CLI), suggests that the blood flow has become severely restricted. Resting pain often worsens at night when lying down, as gravity no longer aids circulation.

Hanging your leg over the side of the bed or sitting up may temporarily relieve the discomfort, but this is not a long-term solution. Immediate medical care is essential to prevent further complications.

7. Muscle Weakness or Difficulty Walking

Severe PAD can lead to muscle weakness, making it challenging to walk or perform daily activities. You might notice a slower gait or the need to take frequent breaks due to leg fatigue. While aging or other conditions like arthritis can cause similar issues, PAD-related muscle weakness often feels distinctly limiting.

Why Early Detection Matters

Ignoring the symptoms of PAD can lead to severe complications, including critical limb ischemia, non-healing wounds, infections, or even amputation. More alarmingly, PAD is closely linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, as the underlying cause—atherosclerosis—affects the entire vascular system.

By recognizing the signs early and seeking medical care, patients can benefit from treatments that improve blood flow, alleviate symptoms, and reduce cardiovascular risks.

When to Seek Medical Care

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, schedule a visit with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Diagnostic tests like ankle-brachial index (ABI) measurements, ultrasound, or angiography can confirm the presence of PAD and guide treatment decisions.

Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medications, or minimally invasive procedures to restore blood flow. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. 

Take Charge of Your Vascular Health

PAD is a serious condition, but with early detection and appropriate care, its progression can be slowed or even halted. Pay attention to your body’s signals, especially if you have risk factors like smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of vascular disease.

Remember, seeking medical attention at the first sign of trouble is the best way to protect your health and maintain your independence. When it comes to PAD, proactive care truly saves lives.

To schedule an appointment with St. George Heart and Vascular, call (435) 900-6001 or visit their website at https://stg-hv.com/. St. George Heart and Vascular is located at 1841 E. Riverside Drive, Suite 202 in St. George, Utah.