Peripheral artery disease (PAD) symptoms can be uncomfortable. They even can make you want to stop exercising or even walking. Be alert to these signs that you might have the disease.
Common PAD symptoms:
- Pain, numbness, aching and heaviness in the muscles—particularly those in the legs—during exercise or activity, and which stops at rest (known as intermittent claudication)
- Cramping in the legs, thighs and calves
- Weak or absent pulse in the legs or feet
- Sores or wounds on toes, feet or legs that heal slowly, or not at all
- Color changes in skin, such as paleness or blueness
- Lower temperature of one leg as compared to the other leg
- Poor toenail growth, and decreased hair growth on toes and legs
If you've been diagnosed with PAD, work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your symptoms and keep track of your recovery progress. Be sure to report if your symptoms worsen or fail to subside.