Intermittent claudication

Intermittent claudication
Synonyms	Vascular claudication, Angina cruris
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pain in the legs during exercise, cramping, weakness
Complications	Critical limb ischemia, gangrene
Onset	Typically occurs in adults over 50
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Peripheral artery disease
Risks	Smoking, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia
Diagnosis	Ankle-brachial index, Doppler ultrasound, angiography
Differential diagnosis	Spinal stenosis, neuropathy, arthritis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Smoking cessation, exercise therapy, medications such as cilostazol, angioplasty, bypass surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depends on severity and treatment
Frequency	Common in older adults
Deaths	N/A

Intermittent Claudication is a medical condition characterized by leg pain that occurs during physical activity and is relieved by rest. It is a common symptom of Peripheral Artery Disease, a condition in which the arteries that supply blood to the legs become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Intermittent Claudication is muscle pain or cramping in the legs or arms that is triggered by activity such as walking, but disappears after a few minutes of rest. The location of the pain depends on the location of the clogged or narrowed artery. Calf pain is the most common location.

Causes

Intermittent Claudication is caused by Peripheral Artery Disease, specifically the buildup of fatty materials (plaques) in the inner walls of the arteries. This buildup, known as atherosclerosis, narrows the arteries and reduces the amount of blood that can flow through them.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Intermittent Claudication typically involves a physical examination, a review of the patient's medical history, and diagnostic tests. These tests may include an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), Doppler ultrasound, angiography, or Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA).

Treatment

Treatment for Intermittent Claudication aims to manage symptoms, improve mobility, and stop the progression of Peripheral Artery Disease. This may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or in some cases, surgery or angioplasty.

See Also

• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
• Atherosclerosis
• Angiography
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)