Can type 2 diabetes cause peripheral arterial disease?

Peripheral arterial disease develops when arteries supplying the limbs become narrowed or blocked. Reduced blood flow may cause aching or cramping in the calf, thigh or buttock during walking that settles with rest. Feet may feel cooler, look pale or bluish, or have slower-healing cuts. Diabetes can affect the artery lining and often occurs with other vascular risks such as smoking, high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol. Some people have no clear symptoms, so foot checks and cardiovascular reviews remain useful even when walking feels normal.

Tell your clinician about leg pain with walking, changes in foot colour or temperature, numbness, or a wound that is slow to heal. A review may include pulses, skin inspection, blood pressure and comparison of blood flow between the arms and ankles. Take prescribed diabetes, blood pressure or cholesterol treatment as directed. Regular walking planned with your clinician, stopping tobacco, caring for the skin and checking feet daily can reduce avoidable injury and support circulation.

Seek emergency help for sudden severe leg or foot pain, a cold or pale limb, new loss of feeling or movement, or a wound with spreading redness, swelling, pus or fever. These signs can indicate a serious circulation problem or infection. Do not walk on an injured foot while waiting for advice.

Ask whether your symptoms fit reduced circulation, whether you need a circulation test, and how often your feet should be examined. Discuss a safe walking plan, smoking support, wound care and which vascular risk factors need review. Ask which symptoms should prompt same-day contact.