When to Seek Medical Care

When you have symptoms of peripheral vascular disease in a leg or a foot (or in an arm or a hand), see your health care provider for an evaluation.

Generally, peripheral vascular disease is not an emergency. On the other hand, it should not be ignored.

• Medical evaluation of your symptoms and effective treatment, if indicated, may prevent further damage to your heart and blood vessels.
  
  
• It may prevent more drastic events such as a heart attack or stroke or loss of toes and feet.

If you have symptoms of peripheral vascular disease along with any of the following, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

• Pain in the chest, upper back, neck, jaw, or shoulder
  
  
• Fainting or loss of consciousness
  
  
• Sudden numbness, weakness, or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
  
  
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
  
  
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  
  
• Sudden dizziness, difficulty walking, loss of balance or coordination
  
  
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Do not try to "wait it out" at home. Do not try to drive yourself. Call 911 right away for emergency medical transport.

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