"Leg Pain: The Silent Symptom of Deadly Heart Disease"
Leg pain, specifically a gripping or cramping sensation in the calves, can be a lesser-known symptom of coronary disease and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD, caused by fatty deposits in the arteries, can lead to life-threatening complications such as gangrene and amputation. People with PAD have a significantly higher risk of heart attack, up to three to five times higher than normal. Risk factors for PAD include smoking, diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. It is important to seek medical attention if experiencing leg pain while walking, as it could be a hidden sign of a silent killer. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, managing blood pressure and diabetes, and taking medications like blood thinners and statins.