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Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a severe condition in which the arteries that provide blood to the limbs are constricted or occluded. This reduces blood circulation and thus, muscles and other body tissues do not receive adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. The following are some of the signs and symptoms that may appear as PAD advances and which require medical attention.

Claudication

Claudication is one of the first and most frequently reported signs of PAD. It is defined as pain in the muscles, commonly in the legs, that is felt during exercise. This pain is felt in the buttocks, thighs or calves and is due to insufficient blood supply to the muscles. When the muscles are not well supplied with blood, they cannot transport metabolic wastes away from the muscle cells hence causing pain and cramps. Claudication pain is typically relieved by rest, but the pain can severely limit mobility and reduce the patient’s quality of life.

Rest Pain

During PAD advancement, certain people may suffer from rest pain. It is a type of pain that affects the feet and toes especially when one is sleeping at night and the legs are raised. Rest pain is a sign of more severe PAD, which means that the blood circulation in the lower limbs is very poor. The pain is usually described as cramp or ache. Any resting pain that is chronic is a sign that the patient needs to see the doctor immediately.

Skin Changes

PAD, if left untreated, results in poor blood circulation and this manifests in changes in the skin and nails of the affected limbs. Some of these changes include:

Hair Loss: Reduced blood flow can cause hair on the legs and feet to fall out, resulting in patchy or complete hair loss.

Thinning Skin: The skin may become thin, shiny, and fragile. This is because the tissues are not receiving enough nutrients to maintain their health.

Rough and Brittle Nails: Nails may become thickened, brittle, and prone to breaking due to poor blood circulation.

These skin changes are important indicators of PAD and should not be ignored.

Wounds and Ulcers

Another significant sign of PAD is the development of wounds and ulcers on the lower limbs. Reduced blood flow results in poor-quality skin that is more prone to injury and slow to heal. Even minor injuries, such as those caused by tight-fitting shoes or stubbing a toe, can lead to persistent wounds and ulcers. These sores are often difficult to treat and can become infected, further complicating the condition. Proper wound care and medical supervision are essential to prevent infections and promote healing.

Gangrene

In severe cases of PAD, complete loss of blood flow to an area can cause tissue death, a condition known as gangrene. Gangrene is characterized by the affected area turning black and becoming necrotic. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Gangrenous tissue must be removed to prevent the spread of infection and to save as much of the limb as possible. Unfortunately, gangrene can lead to amputation if not treated promptly.

Peripheral Artery Disease is a serious condition that requires attention and care. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of PAD is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. If you or a loved one experience any symptoms of PAD, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. With the right management strategies, including lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures, individuals with PAD can improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of severe complications. Early detection and intervention are key to managing PAD effectively and preventing irreversible damage to the limbs. Remember, taking proactive steps to manage your health can make a significant difference in living well with PAD.