This process, which causes the hardening of arteries in the arms and legs, is called peripheral artery disease (PAD).

So, what should you be looking out for?

According to health body Azura Vascular Care, pain, weakness, or numbness in the calves, thighs, or hips that disappears after a few minutes of rest is one of the “most frequent” PAD symptoms reported by patients.

“In severe or advanced cases, pain might occur while lying down, but most times, simply dangling your feet over the side of the bed will alleviate the pain.”

This pain is due to clogged arteries often making simple physical activity difficult, explains the health body.

Other peripheral artery disease symptoms may include:

• Coldness in the lower leg or foot, especially when compared with the other side
• Leg numbness or weakness
• No pulse or a weak pulse in the legs or feet
• Painful cramping in one or both of the hips, thighs or calf muscles after certain activities, such as walking or climbing stairs
• Shiny skin on the legs
• Skin colour changes on the legs
• Slower growth of the toenails
• Sores on the toes, feet or legs that won’t heal
• Pain when using the arms, such as aching and cramping when knitting, writing or doing other manual tasks
• Erectile dysfunction
• Hair loss or slower hair growth on the legs.

Do not let PAD go untreated

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) explains: “When the blood flow becomes worse, the body can’t deliver enough blood, nutrients and oxygen to the skin and soft tissues.”

The health body continues: “This usually occurs in the feet, as they are furthest from the heart. You may develop persistent pain, ulcers and even gangrene in the feet.

“This is known as critical limb ischaemia, and rapid treatment is essential to have a chance of saving the leg.”