Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Symptoms
Peripheral arterial disease is a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your head, organs, and limbs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue, and other substances in the blood.
Part of: Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Signs and Symptoms of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Many people who have peripheral arterial disease (P.A.D.) don’t have any signs or symptoms. Others may have many signs and symptoms.
Even if you don’t have signs or symptoms, ask your doctor whether you should get checked for P.A.D. if you’re:
People who have P.A.D. may have symptoms when walking or climbing stairs. These symptoms may include pain, numbness, aching, or heaviness in the leg muscles.
Symptoms also may include cramping in the affected leg(s) and in the buttocks, thighs, calves, and feet. Symptoms may ease after resting.
These symptoms are called intermittent claudication. During physical activity, your muscles need increased blood flow. If your blood vessels are narrowed or blocked, your muscles… Read more about Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Symptoms