When To Call A Professional

Call your doctor if you consistently suffer from cramps, aching, numbness or disproportionate fatigue in your leg muscles or buttocks when you exercise. Call immediately if you have these symptoms at rest or when any part of your leg or foot suddenly turns numb, cold, pale or a bluish color.

Prognosis

In most people with peripheral vascular disease, leg symptoms remain stable. About 10% to15 % of patients improve, and about 15% to 20% get worse. Prognosis is better for people who are able to remain tobacco-free, stay on a healthy diet, keep their blood cholesterol under control, and exercise regularly.

Additional Info

National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) P.O. Box 30105 Bethesda, MD 20824-0105 Phone: (301) 592-8573 http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/