A client with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) reports experiencing pain in their legs that occurs with walking and is relieved by rest. The nurse recognizes this symptom as:
A.
Intermittent claudication.
B.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
C.
Raynaud’s phenomenon.
D.
Chronic venous insufficiency
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Intermittent claudication.
Explanation:
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common circulatory problem where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, usually the legs. A hallmark symptom of PAD is intermittent claudication. This condition is characterized by muscle pain, typically in the legs, that occurs during physical activity, such as walking, and is relieved by rest. The pain is caused by insufficient blood flow to the muscles during exercise. As the muscles work harder, they require more oxygen, but the narrowed arteries cannot deliver enough blood to meet this increased demand. Once the activity stops, the demand for oxygen decreases, and the pain subsides.
Intermittent claudication is usually felt in the calves but can also occur in the thighs, buttocks, or feet. The severity of the pain varies based on the extent of the arterial blockage and the amount of exertion. Intermittent claudication is an early indicator of PAD and a sign that atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries) is occurring not just in the legs but potentially throughout the body, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Let’s briefly examine the incorrect options:
B. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): DVT involves the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can cause leg pain and swelling, but the pain is typically more constant and does not improve with rest. It is not associated with exertion, as in intermittent claudication.
C. Raynaud’s phenomenon: This condition involves spasms of the small arteries, usually in the fingers and toes, leading to color changes (white, blue, red) and pain. It is triggered by cold or stress, not by walking or exercise.
D. Chronic venous insufficiency: This condition is due to poor venous return and typically causes aching, swelling, and skin changes in the legs, particularly after prolonged standing or sitting. The pain is not typically related to exercise and relieved by rest.
Thus, recognizing intermittent claudication as a symptom of PAD is crucial for early diagnosis and management to prevent further complications.