Peripheral Artery Disease Symptoms In The Legs

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) often presents with no noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages. Many individuals may experience no discomfort and can walk normally. However, as the condition progresses, plaque buildup within the arteries of the legs begins to restrict proper blood flow.

Signs Of Progressing Peripheral Artery Disease

As atherosclerotic plaques grow larger, the blood supply to the lower extremities becomes increasingly limited. This can lead to cramping, fatigue, or a feeling of heaviness in the calf muscles during physical activity such as walking—a condition known as intermittent claudication. These symptoms typically subside with rest but reappear with exertion. At this stage, significant narrowing or even blockage of the leg arteries may already be present, indicating more severe ischemia.

Advanced Symptoms Of Severe Ischemia

What Happens If PAD Worsens?

If the disease continues to progress, more serious symptoms may develop, including persistent coldness, numbness, or pain in the legs and feet. These are clear indicators that tissue is being affected by inadequate blood supply. In advanced cases, pain may even occur at rest, particularly at night, and can be relieved temporarily by dangling the legs over the side of the bed.

Treatment Options For PAD

At this point, treatment typically involves a combination of medications and minimally invasive or surgical procedures to restore proper blood flow. Treatments such as angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery can effectively reopen blocked arteries and improve circulation. With successful intervention, symptoms often improve significantly and quality of life can be restored.