Peripheral Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Risk Indicators, and Monitoring

Peripheral atherosclerosis affects the arteries outside the heart and brain, gradually reducing the elasticity of the vessels and allowing fats to accumulate in their walls. People may notice signs like persistent coldness in the legs and feet, dry or flaky skin, and muscle discomfort that develops slowly with activity. This constellation of symptoms points to changes in the leg arteries that supply blood to the lower limbs. A clear description of these early clues helps people seek medical assessment before the condition progresses.