Winter months often see a rise in heart-related problems. While chest pain is the best-known warning sign, changes in the legs and feet can also point to hidden heart risk. One such condition is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).

What exactly is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease happens when cholesterol and fatty deposits build up in the arteries, most commonly those supplying blood to the legs. This narrows or blocks blood flow, leading to swelling, pain, and circulation problems in the feet and calves.

PAD doesn’t just affect the legs. Because it reflects widespread artery disease, people with PAD have a higher risk of heart attack and stroke as well.

Importantly, PAD develops slowly, and symptoms often appear long before a serious event occurs.

Common symptoms of PAD

• Pain or cramps in the legs while walking or climbing stairs

• Swelling in the feet, ankles, or toes

• Coldness in the feet compared to the rest of the body

• Bluish or pale (light purple) discoloration of the feet

• Numbness or tingling in the legs

• Dry, rough skin on the feet

• Thick, yellow, or slow-growing toenails

If these symptoms worsen at night or don’t improve with rest, they should not be ignored.

Is leg artery blockage linked to heart attack?

Yes. Doctors explain that PAD indicates poor blood vessel health throughout the body. People with PAD often have:

• Obesity

• Low physical activity

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• Smoking history

While PAD doesn’t always cause heart problems directly, it is a major warning sign. Someone with PAD is much more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke compared to someone without it.

If you already have heart disease, leg swelling or numbness deserves immediate medical attention.

How can PAD be prevented?

Simple lifestyle steps can significantly reduce risk:

• Exercise regularly (walking is especially effective)

• Maintain a heart-healthy diet

• Avoid excess fat, refined flour (maida), and red meat

• Control blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol

• Quit smoking completely

• Manage stress through sleep, meditation, or relaxation techniques