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Mar 20, 2023 · Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common condition where a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries restricts blood supply to leg muscles. It's also known as peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Symptoms of peripheral arterial disease. Many people with PAD have no symptoms.
- Treatment
Then rest until the pain goes. Begin walking again until the...
- Diagnosis
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- Treatment
- Overview
- Is leg pain a sign of a heart attack?
- Other heart conditions that can cause leg pain
- How do doctors diagnose heart conditions causing leg pain?
- How do doctors treat heart conditions that can cause leg pain?
- When to contact a doctor for leg pain associated with a heart condition
- Summary
Doctors do not typically consider leg pain a symptom of a heart attack. However, leg pain may be a symptom of various other cardiovascular conditions.
Heart attack symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, and pain in the neck, jaw, arms, back, or abdomen.
Leg pain related to heart conditions may occur when there is a problem with the blood vessels, or the heart is not pumping correctly.
This article explores the connection between leg pain and heart health, how a doctor may diagnose the condition, possible treatments, and more.
A heart attack is medically known as a myocardial infarction (MI). A heart attack occurs when a portion of the heart muscle becomes deprived of oxygen-rich blood.
This typically happens due to a blockage in one of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart.
Experts do not consider leg pain a typical symptom of a heart attack. However, leg pain can be a symptom of other heart conditions.
Symptoms of a heart attack include:
•chest discomfort or pain
•chest pressure
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
PAD is a circulatory condition that occurs when there is a narrowing or blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the extremities, primarily the legs. This constriction is due to a buildup of plaque deposits within the arterial walls, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Lack of blood flow to the legs may cause symptoms such as: •pain or aching in the legs •heaviness in the legs •loss of leg hair •pale, blue, or discolored legs or feet •leg numbness or weakness •pins and needles feeling in legs or feet •foot wounds that are slow healing or do not heal
Congenital heart defect (CHD)
CHDs are structural abnormalities within the heart present from birth. They can disrupt normal blood. CHDs are the most common birth defect. They affect approximately 1% of live births in the United States. There are several types of CHDs. Most of them affect the interior walls, valves, and major blood vessels connected to the heart. Symptoms associated with a CHD depend on several factors, including the person’s age, the defect type, and its severity. Common symptoms include: •bluish tint to the skin and lips •constant fatigue •heart murmurs •poor blood circulation •rapid breathing •shortness of breath during physical exertion According to a small 2018 survey, leg pain is a common symptom among children with CHD.
Venous thrombosis embolism (VTE)
VTE is when a blood clot develops in a vein. A common location for VTEs is the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis. VTEs are a common condition. People have a higher risk of a VTE after surgery, a major injury, or during inflammation or infection. Symptoms of VTE include: •swelling in the legs •pain or tenderness in the legs •redness of the calf or thigh •warm skin in the calf or thigh
To diagnose whether a heart condition is causing leg pain, a doctor typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination to assess symptoms, risk factors, and overall health.
Diagnostic tests, such as ankle-brachial index (ABI) measurements, which assess blood pressure in the arms and legs, can help gauge blood flow and identify potential blockages.
Imaging tests may help a doctor visualize blood vessels and detect any abnormalities that could contribute to both leg pain and underlying heart conditions. These imaging tests include:
•Doppler ultrasound
•CT angiography
•magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)
Treatment strategies for heart conditions that may cause leg pain depend on the specific condition.
For PAD, lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking, are crucial to improving blood circulation.
Medications, including blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs, can help manage the risk factors contributing to PAD.
VTEs often require anticoagulant medications to prevent clot growth and recurrence.
CHDs may need procedures or surgery to repair the defect. In severe cases, a person may require a heart transplant.
CHF treatments aim to improve heart function and manage fluid retention with medications, lifestyle adjustments, and, in severe cases, interventions such as implantable devices or a heart transplant.
If a person is experiencing leg pain that they suspect could be related to a heart condition, it is important to seek medical attention, especially if they notice any of the following:
•severe or sudden leg pain
•persistent pain
•changes in leg color or temperature
Leg pain is typically not a direct symptom of a heart attack. Instead, heart attacks are commonly associated with chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and pain radiating to the arms, neck, or back.
However, leg pain can result from cardiovascular conditions that affect circulation, such as peripheral arterial disease, congenital heart defects, venous thromboembolism, and congestive heart failure.
8. Leg pain. A gripping, cramping sensation in your calves when you are walking is a marker of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The pain is caused by your legs not receiving enough blood. It’s most common in people who smoke and those who have diabetes. If you notice this symptom, make an appointment with your GP. 9. Extreme fatigue
Jun 24, 2022 · Leg pain may be a symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD), which can signal heart problems. Learn about its causes, and how to manage and prevent PAD.
- Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA
- Thigh nerve issue (meralgia paresthetica) Meralgia paresthetica is a nerve condition that causes an area of skin over the upper outer thigh to feel numb, tingly, or painful.
- Spinal stenosis. The spine, or backbone, protects the spinal cord and allows people to stand and bend. Spinal stenosis causes narrowing in the spine. The narrowing puts pressure on nerves and the spinal cord and can cause pain.
- Repetitive strain injury of the quadriceps. Repetitive strain injury of the upper leg is caused by consistent repetitive use. You do not need treatment, just rest from your overuse.
- Repetitive strain injury of the hamstring. Repetitive strain injury of the upper leg is caused by consistent repetitive use. You do not need treatment, just rest from your overuse.
Jun 19, 2019 · Peripheral artery disease begins when LDL ("bad") cholesterol passes from the blood into the wall of an artery. Arteries damaged by high blood pressure, smoking, or diabetes are at particular risk. As the cholesterol builds up, it triggers inflammation, which adds to the damage.
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Mar 17, 2020 · Peripheral artery disease occurs when there are blockages in the leg. It can be as dangerous as blockages in the heart. Learn how to identify warning signs.
