Arteriosclerosis of the extremities
Key points
- Arteriosclerosis of the extremities is a disease of the blood vessels characterized by narrowing and hardening of the arteries that supply the legs and feet.
- Arteriosclerosis, or "hardening of the arteries," commonly shows its effects first in the legs and feet.
- If arteriosclerosis exists in both limbs, the intensity is usually different in each.
- Arteriosclerosis of the extremities is usually controllable with treatment.
Alternative names
Peripheral vascular disease; PVD; Peripheral arterial disease; PAD; Arteriosclerosis obliterans
Definition
Arteriosclerosis of the extremities is a disease of the blood vessels characterized by narrowing and hardening of the arteries that supply the legs and feet. This causes a decrease in blood flow that can injure nerves and other tissues.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Arteriosclerosis, or "hardening of the arteries," commonly shows its effects first in the legs and feet. The narrowing of the arteries may progress to total closure (occlusion) of the vessel. The vessel walls become less elastic and cannot dilate to allow greater blood flow when needed (such as during exercise). Calcium deposits in the walls of the arteries contribute to the narrowing and stiffness. The effects of these deposits may be seen on ordinary X-rays.
This is a common disorder, usually affecting men over 50 years old. People are at higher risk if they have a personal or family history of coronary artery disease (heart disease) or cerebrovascular disease (Stroke), Diabetes, Smoking, hypertension (high blood pressure), or kidney disease involving Hemodialysis.
Symptoms
Often, symptoms affect one limb. If arteriosclerosis exists in both limbs, the intensity is usually different in each.
- Leg pain (intermittent claudication)
o Occurs with exercise (such as walking)
o Relieved with rest - Numbness of the legs or feet at rest
- Cold legs or feet
- Muscle pain in the thighs, calves, or feet
- Loss of hair on the legs and/or feet
- Change of color of the legs
- Paleness or blueness (cyanosis)
- Pulse, weak or absent in the limb
- Walking/gait abnormalities
Signs and tests
An examination may show arterial bruits (whooshing sound heard with the stethoscope over the artery), decreased or absent pulse in the extremities, or decreased blood pressure in the affected limb.
Blood tests may show high cholesterol.
Peripheral artery disease may be revealed by:
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
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