Which symptom pattern suggests critical limb ischemia requiring evaluation before activity?

Which symptom pattern suggests critical limb ischemia requiring evaluation before activity?

• A. Intermittent claudication that improves with rest.
• B. No limb symptoms during exertion.
• C. Rest pain with bluish discoloration of the leg.
• D. Calf pain relieved with heat.

Answer: (C)

Rest pain with bluish discoloration of the leg signals critical limb ischemia, meaning the limb isn’t getting enough blood even at rest. This indicates advanced peripheral arterial disease and a high risk of tissue loss, so the limb needs urgent vascular evaluation and possible revascularization before any activity is pursued. Intermittent claudication that improves with rest is typical of less severe PAD, indicating pain from walking that eases with stopped activity. No limb symptoms during exertion argues against PAD symptoms, and calf pain that’s relieved with heat isn’t a reliable sign of critical ischemia.

Rest pain with bluish discoloration of the leg signals critical limb ischemia, meaning the limb isn’t getting enough blood even at rest. This indicates advanced peripheral arterial disease and a high risk of tissue loss, so the limb needs urgent vascular evaluation and possible revascularization before any activity is pursued.

Intermittent claudication that improves with rest is typical of less severe PAD, indicating pain from walking that eases with stopped activity. No limb symptoms during exertion argues against PAD symptoms, and calf pain that’s relieved with heat isn’t a reliable sign of critical ischemia.