Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is when a build-up of fatty deposits narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow to your legs. It is common, especially in people over 60 and people who smoke. People with PAD are also more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.
Symptoms
- pain, cramping or aching in the calves, thighs or buttocks when walking, which goes away with rest (intermittent claudication)
- cold or numb feet
- hair loss on the legs and feet
- shiny, pale or bluish skin on the legs
- sores or ulcers on the feet or legs that do not heal
Many people have no symptoms at first.
What raises the risk?
- smoking, which is the biggest risk
- diabetes
- high blood pressure and high cholesterol
- getting older
Getting diagnosed
Your GP will check the pulses in your legs and feet, and may do an ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) test, which compares the blood pressure in your ankles and arms. You may have an ultrasound scan.
Read about treatment for peripheral arterial disease.
Common questions
Why do my legs hurt when I walk but not when I rest?
Muscles need more blood when they are working. If your arteries are narrowed, they cannot get enough, which causes cramping pain. When you stop, the muscles need less blood and the pain eases. This is called intermittent claudication.
Sources we used
- NHS, Peripheral arterial disease
- NICE guideline CG147, Peripheral arterial disease
- Circulation Foundation
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