What Is Claudication?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
5. What Are Possible Complications?
Peripheral artery disease, the most common cause of claudication, can cause complications. Decreased circulation can cause coldness and decreased sensation of the affected limbs. Skin that does not receive sufficient blood flow can develop nonhealing sores or serious infections, such as gangrene. Men with PAD can become impotent.
Bear in mind that the buildup in plaque that can damage the peripheral arteries can also affect those supplying blood to the vital organs of the heart and brain. Therefore, arterial disease can also increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. Claudication may be an early sign that you may someday experience cardiovascular events of this nature, so you should take it seriously.
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