When arteries narrow
Peripheral artery disease develops when arteries carrying blood to the limbs narrow or become blocked. Some people have no clear symptoms.
A classic sign is muscle pain, cramping or fatigue while walking that improves with rest.
Signs worth discussing
An early evaluation can identify the cause and guide the right plan.
- Repeated pain in the calf, thigh or buttock while walking.
- One foot feels colder than the other.
- Changes in skin color.
- Wounds on the feet or toes that heal slowly.
- Reduced hair growth or slow nail growth.
Treatment does not always begin with a procedure
The plan may include risk-factor control, supervised activity and medicines. Angioplasty, stenting or surgery are considered when anatomy, symptoms or limb risk justify them.