Recognizing the Signs of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

An estimated 6.5 million Americans over 40 have peripheral artery disease (PAD). It’s one of the most common vascular conditions, but it often goes undiagnosed — and untreated.

PAD is a type of atherosclerosis — a circulatory disorder that develops when plaque buildup narrows your arteries. Narrower arteries limit blood flow to your extremities, and in particular, your legs and feet.

Without treatment, PAD can compromise your health. Recognizing the signs is essential for early detection and timely intervention, and our team at Vascular & Interventional Specialists in Miami, Florida, is here to help.

Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms of PAD and what to do if you think you might have it.

Leg pain and cramping

A common sign of PAD is leg pain or cramping. The medical term for this uncomfortable symptom is intermittent claudication.

If you have PAD, you might experience discomfort, aching, or cramping in your leg muscles — especially during physical activity. The pain usually occurs in your calf muscles, but you might also feel it in your thighs or buttocks.

The pain may subside with rest but return when you start walking or exercising again. If left untreated, leg pain and cramping from PAD can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life.

Numbness or weakness

Another sign of PAD is numbness or weakness in your legs. The condition restricts blood flow to your lower extremities, meaning your muscles may not receive adequate oxygen.

Low oxygen can lead to tingling or numbness in your legs. When it’s persistent, it can be difficult to walk or perform daily activities. You might also notice weakness in your leg muscles that causes difficulties with balance and stability.

Skin changes

PAD can also cause noticeable changes in the skin on your legs and feet. Reduced blood flow can make your skin appear pale, thin, or shiny. Sometimes, your legs and feet may feel cool to the touch or have decreased hair growth.

In severe cases, you might develop open sores or ulcers — particularly on your toes or feet. These wounds are prone to infection, so it’s essential to pay attention to any skin changes and seek medical attention if you notice anything concerning.

Slow healing wounds

Your body relies on blood flow to heal wounds effectively, and impaired blood flow from PAD can hinder your healing. Even minor cuts or sores can take a long time to heal. The longer a wound takes to heal, the higher your risk of infection.

If you notice wounds aren’t healing, it could be a sign of PAD. Timely intervention can help prevent more significant complications, like infection and amputation.

Cold feet

PAD can trigger a decrease in temperature where blood flow is limited. That means you might experience cold feet, even in warm environments.

The coldness may come along with a feeling of heaviness or lack of sensation in your feet. So, if you find yourself constantly reaching for extra socks, it could be a sign of PAD.

Remember, if you notice symptoms of PAD, it’s essential to get medical help. Our team at Vascular & Interventional Specialists can diagnose your condition with a physical exam and testing as needed.

If we identify PAD, we may recommend a combination of lifestyle changes and medication to reduce plaque buildup and improve blood flow to your extremities. With proactive care, you can minimize the bothersome symptoms of PAD and lower your risk of more significant complications.

Schedule your PAD evaluation at Vascular & Interventional Specialists in Miami, Florida. Call our office at 305-230-4664 or request an appointment online now.