Signs of PAD

Posted: Feb. 1, 2008

Many people who have PAD (peripheral arterial disease) don't have any signs of the disease. However, one symptom that some people experience is leg pain that occurs when walking or climbing stairs, which may be relieved after resting. This pain is called intermittent claudication. Claudication is more likely in people who also have atherosclerosis in other arteries, such as the heart and brain.

Signs of PAD may include:

• Pain, numbness, aching and heaviness in the muscles
• Cramping in the legs, thighs, calves and feet
• A weak or absent pulse in the legs or feet
• Sores or wounds on toes, feet or legs that heal slowly, poorly or not at all
• Color changes in skin, paleness or blueness (called cyanosis)
• A decreased temperature in one leg compared to the other leg
• Poor nail growth and decreased hair growth on toes and legs
• Erectile dysfunction, especially among people with diabetes

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