Which specialist treats peripheral arterial disease?

A vascular specialist evaluates reduced blood flow in the arteries supplying the legs and feet. A GP may first check pulses, skin changes, walking symptoms and health conditions that affect arteries. Further assessment can include blood pressure checks, blood tests and circulation testing. A cardiologist or diabetes clinician may also contribute when heart or metabolic risks need attention.

Peripheral arterial disease may cause leg pain when walking that improves with rest, muscle cramps, cold hands and feet, slow-healing wounds or colour changes. These symptoms have other possible causes, so a clinical assessment is needed rather than self-diagnosis.

Arrange a GP appointment if walking pain is recurring or your feet feel persistently cold. Bring information about smoking or nicotine use, diabetes, high cholesterol, blood pressure and medicines. Treatment may include supervised activity, risk-factor management, smoking cessation support or statin therapy. A vascular specialist decides whether an intervention is needed after examination and testing.

Seek emergency care for sudden severe leg or foot pain, a cold or pale limb, new numbness or weakness, loss of pulses, or a wound that rapidly worsens. These changes can signal a sudden interruption of blood flow. Do not wait for a routine referral if a foot becomes blue, black or markedly colder than the other side.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest an arterial problem, which circulation test is appropriate, and whether you need vascular referral. Discuss walking plans, foot protection, cholesterol treatment, nicotine support and the warning signs that need emergency assessment.