Critical Warning Sign #3: Unexplained Discomfort
One of the most noticeable indicators of cholesterol-related peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an unexplainable ache or discomfort in your legs. This condition is called intermittent claudication, and it. usually shows up as a cramp that happens while you’re active and then goes away with rest. The discomfort comes from your narrowed arteries struggling to bring enough oxygen to your legs during exercise. The NHS reports that this pain can vary in severity and location, but your feet, calves, thighs, or hips can all be affected.
This symptom becomes more concerning when it happens during routine activities like walking or taking the stairs. An important distinction to make is that this type of discomfort is different than regular muscle fatigue or exercise-related soreness. When PAD progresses, some people may experience pain even during rest, especially at night. The pain may worsen when your feet are elevated (like when you’re in bed) because gravity isn’t able to help your already-constricted arteries pump blood to your feet. These symptoms, especially when combined with other signs of poor circulation, warrant prompt medical attention.