PAD & vein disease
Leg pain and swelling
Summary
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) and vein disease both affect blood flow in the legs but in opposite ways. PAD narrows arteries and causes leg pain with walking. Vein disease causes blood to pool, leading to varicose veins, swelling, or skin changes. Both are treatable and often go undiagnosed.
When to call us
- •Leg pain with walking that goes away with rest
- •Wounds on feet or legs that will not heal
- •Sudden, severe leg pain or cold, pale leg (call 911)
- •Painful, swollen calf, especially after travel or surgery
Questions to ask your doctor
- 1.Should I have an ankle-brachial index test?
- 2.What can I do to walk farther without pain?
- 3.Do my veins need treatment or are they cosmetic?
- 4.Am I at risk for a blood clot?
- 5.Which lifestyle changes help the most?
Full guide on CardioSmart
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