Peripheral Artery Disease Symptoms

What are the Symptoms of PAD?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) often develops silently, with many people showing no symptoms until the condition progresses. This makes early detection through routine cardiovascular screenings essential, particularly for those at higher risk.

When symptoms do occur, they can be disruptive to everyday life and lead to complications down the road. The symptoms of PAD can be caused by a variety of conditions, so it is important that you work with a vascular specialist if you suspect you may have PAD. They will be able to accurately assess you and guide you on the right next steps. Heart & leg works with patients to help them address PAD and its symptoms and live healthier lives.

Recognizing PAD Symptoms

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) symptoms arise when plaque buildup in the arteries reduces blood and oxygen flow to the limbs. When muscles and tissues don’t receive essential nutrients—especially during activity—your body responds with warning signs. If you experience any of the following symptoms, schedule a consultation with the Heart Vascular and Leg Center. Our specialists will identify the root cause and help you regain comfort and mobility.

Ulcers

Painful, slow-healing sores on the skin could be ulcers, often caused by poor circulation. Without treatment, they can worsen and become infected.

Leg Swelling

If your legs feel heavy, tight, or puffy, fluid buildup (edema) may be the cause. It’s often linked to circulation issues and requires attention.

Varicose Veins

Bulging, twisted veins in your legs aren’t just a cosmetic concern—they can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort, often worsening over time.

Skin Discoloration

If you notice dark or reddish patches on your skin, poor circulation or inflammation might be the cause. It’s a sign your vascular health needs attention.

Spider Veins

Those tiny red or blue veins on your skin’s surface may seem harmless, but they could signal circulation problems or increased vein pressure.

Restless Legs

An irresistible urge to move your legs, especially at night, can disrupt sleep and daily life. Restless legs syndrome can be more than just an annoyance.

Poor Circulation

Cold feet, numbness, or tingling? These could be signs of poor circulation, meaning your blood isn’t flowing as it should to your limbs.

Leg Cramps

Sharp, sudden muscle pain in your legs—especially at night—may be due to poor circulation, dehydration, or nerve issues. Don’t ignore frequent cramps.

Dermatitis

Red, itchy, irritated skin? Dermatitis can flare up due to allergies, irritants, or circulation problems, making your skin uncomfortable and inflamed.

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What Are the Early Symptoms of PAD?

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) often starts silently, with no noticeable symptoms in its early stage (Asymptomatic stage). However, as the condition progresses, your body may start giving warning signs, including:

  • Leg pain while walking (claudication) – Aching or cramping that eases with rest
  • Burning or discomfort in the feet and toes at rest
  • Cold sensation in the feet
  • Skin discoloration or redness in the legs
  • Persistent wounds or sores on the feet and legs that do not heal

Advanced PAD Symptoms

When Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) worsens, it can significantly impact your daily life and put you at risk for serious health issues like stroke, heart attack, or even limb loss. In its critical stage—known as Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI)—PAD causes chronic pain and requires prompt treatment to prevent dangerous complications. Watch for these warning signs:

  • Unrelenting pain or tingling in your feet or toes, even while resting
  • Muscle wasting in the calves, making it harder to walk or stand
  • Noticeable hair loss on your feet and toes, a sign of reduced blood flow
  • Shiny, thin skin that appears stretched and delicate
  • Painful, slow-healing ulcers on your feet or toes, which may darken or turn black

PAD Symptoms FAQ

PAD often develops gradually, meaning you might not notice any symptoms until the disease is in its later stages. In fact, many people with PAD remain unaware of the condition for years. If you have risk factors—such as diabetes—it’s important to have regular vascular checkups to catch PAD early.

When symptoms do arise, they often include aching, weakness, or numbness in the legs, calves, or feet. Pain from PAD typically appears during physical activity and eases with rest. However, if the condition worsens, you may feel a burning or aching sensation in your toes even when you’re at rest. You might also notice that your skin feels unusually cool to the touch.

PAD affects more than just how you feel—it also changes how your legs look. Internally, it causes plaque buildup that narrows your arteries, restricting blood flow.

Externally, PAD symptoms may include skin discoloration, slowed hair and toenail growth, and persistent wounds on your legs or feet that heal slowly—or don’t heal at all. Spotting these changes early allows for timely treatment, reducing the risk of serious complications.

PAD is a progressive disease that should never be ignored. As artery blockages worsen, circulation to the legs can become dangerously restricted. In severe cases, this can lead to complete loss of blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and even amputations.

Even before these extreme complications, untreated PAD can take a toll on your daily life. Chronic leg pain can make walking, standing, and even sleeping uncomfortable. Open sores on the feet and legs become difficult to heal, raising the risk of serious infections. The sooner PAD is diagnosed and treated, the better your long-term health and mobility will be.

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Leading Vascular Care Experts

Dr. Vinod Kumar, MD, FACC

Dr. Newton Phuong, MD

Dr. Mark Le, MD

Dr. Massoud Arbabzedah, MD

Gerardo Murguia, PA-C

Elsita Mathew, FNP-C

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5020 Commerce Drive
Bakersfield, CA 93309

Schedule an Appointment with Heart Vascular and Leg Center

If you’re experiencing symptoms of vascular disease or are at risk for conditions like PAD, don’t wait to seek care. Schedule an appointment with Heart Vascular and Leg Center today. Our specialists will assess your condition and guide you toward the most effective treatment options—whether it’s lifestyle modifications, medication, or advanced minimally invasive procedures. Your vascular health is our priority, and we’re here to help you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence. To learn more about our expert care in Bakersfield, CA, or to get started with our team, reach out today.

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