Peripheral artery disease is a narrowing or blockage of the leg arteries caused by fatty and calcium build-up. Its best-known sign is calf pain on walking that eases with rest, called intermittent claudication.
Symptoms
- Calf pain or cramping on walking that eases with rest
- A cold or pale foot
- Weak foot pulses
- Slow-healing foot wounds
- Rest pain in advanced cases
Causes & risk factors
- Smoking, the strongest risk factor
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure and cholesterol
- Age and family history
Diagnosis
Diagnosis includes checking pulses, the ankle-brachial index and a Doppler scan. A CT angiogram may be requested to locate and grade the narrowing.
Treatment options
Lifestyle changes
Stopping smoking, a regular walking programme and control of sugar, blood pressure and lipids.
Medication
To reduce symptoms and protect the arteries.
Endovascular treatment
Balloon angioplasty with a stent when needed, through a small puncture.
Surgery
Such as bypass in selected cases.
After treatment
After angioplasty most patients leave hospital within a day or two, continuing medication and regular Doppler follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Is leg pain on walking always from the arteries?
Not always; it can come from the spine or joints. A Doppler scan helps tell them apart.
Will I need medication after a stent?
Usually yes: antiplatelet medication for a period set by the doctor.
Is walking good for this condition?
Yes. A regular walking programme is one of the best ways to increase pain-free walking distance.
Content on this website is for awareness only and does not replace a specialist medical examination.