Most people assume leg pain is just a sign of getting older. But sometimes, your body is sending a much more serious message, and ignoring it could cost you a limb.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a condition in which fatty plaque builds up in the arteries of your legs, reducing blood flow to your muscles and skin. PAD affects more than 8 million Americans, yet it often goes undiagnosed because the early symptoms are easy to brush off as normal aging.
According to Dr. Anil Shah, cardiologist at Coastal Heart Medical Group in Santa Ana, recognizing PAD symptoms early is the single most important step in preventing serious complications like non-healing wounds and amputation.
Here are the five PAD warning signs you should never ignore.
If your legs ache, cramp, or feel heavy when you walk, but the pain eases when you rest, this is called claudication, and it's one of the most classic symptoms of peripheral artery disease. The pain occurs because your leg muscles aren't getting enough oxygen-rich blood during activity.
Does one foot (or both) feel consistently colder than the rest of your body? Poor circulation caused by blocked leg arteries can prevent normal warmth and sensation from reaching your feet , a common but frequently overlooked sign of PAD.
A small cut or blister that simply refuses to heal is a major red flag. Without adequate blood flow, your body can't repair tissue normally. This is especially critical for diabetic patients, in whom unhealed foot wounds can escalate rapidly into serious infections.
Pale, bluish, or shiny skin on your lower legs or feet can signal that blood isn't circulating properly. You may also notice hair loss on the legs or thickened toenails, both signs of poor vascular health.
A healthcare provider checking the pulse in your feet can detect reduced blood flow you might not feel yourself. If you've never had your foot pulses checked, especially if you have diabetes or high blood pressure, ask about it at your next visit.
If you recognize even one of these warning signs, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a history of smoking, don't wait. PAD is highly treatable, particularly when caught early.
At Coastal Heart Medical Group, Dr. Anil Shah and our vascular care team diagnose and treat PAD using minimally invasive techniques designed to restore circulation, relieve leg pain, and protect your limbs.
