Recognizing the warning signs of vascular disease in the legs

Changes in leg circulation are easy to miss, but they can signal vascular disease and are worth paying attention to.

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Pacific Vascular Associates says common warning signs include cold feet or legs, pain that comes on while walking and eases with rest, wounds or sores that do not heal, and swollen legs.

Knowing when screening may be needed is an important next step. A vascular ultrasound is one of the main tests used to check blood flow and look for possible problems.

Screening can be especially valuable because severe vascular disease may not cause clear symptoms until major damage has already developed.

Vascular disease may also be linked with conditions such as heart disease and advanced diabetes.

Pacific Vascular Associates recommends considering screening for adults 65 and older, as well as people between 50 and 64 who have risk factors like diabetes, current or past smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, chronic kidney disease, or a family history of peripheral artery disease.

People under 50 who have diabetes plus another cardiovascular risk factor may also need screening.

Anyone with known cardiovascular disease or signs of poor circulation, such as leg pain or fatigue while walking, foot pain at rest, non-healing wounds, discoloration, cool feet, or weak or absent pulses, should discuss screening with a healthcare professional.

Treatment depends on the specific vascular condition. Dr. Yasser El Sergany discusses treatment options for vein disease, while Dr. Amr El Sergany handles arterial disease in the legs.

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