In patients who are normally active, symptoms of pain, weakness and swelling in the legs can be the first sign of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). It is not normal to have pain in your legs with activity. This suggests that a blockage has formed reducing the blood flow in your leg when you walk. Simply, if the muscles run out of blood, they will cramp and have pain. It is very important to see your primary care physician at this point because your body might be forming blockages in many places including the heart. There is simple treatment available with medications that can be prescribed if the diagnosis of PAD is made.
Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans, and sometimes the first symptoms of artery blockages is not chest pain, but leg pain with walking. Get evaluated.
