Smoking & Leg Cramps

Smoking is a dangerous addiction that is extremely difficult to break. Smoking increases the risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke. It causes premature aging of the skin and discoloration of the hands, teeth and fingernails. Smoking also results in peripheral vascular disease (PAD) that causes cramping in the legs.

PAD

Peripheral vascular disease is caused by a narrowing and/or hardening of the arteries in the legs. Symptoms include cramping, intense aching and a feeling of tiredness throughout the legs.

Pain With Exercise or Movement

The pain that accompanies PAD can come on during physical exercise or simply climbing stairs. A tingling sensation may be experienced as well as numbness.

Cold

PAD bought on by smoking may cause one or both legs to feel cold. The affected legs may change color (blue). A burning or aching feeling may be felt in the toes when resting.

Sores

The lack of blood flow from smoking-induced PAD may make it harder for sores or cuts to heal on the legs and feet.

Shrinking Calves and Tough Toenails

Others signs and symptoms of leg pain from smoking include the shrinking of calf muscles. The toenails may also become thick and tough.

Considerations

According to the University of Southern California Center for Vascular Care, higher tobacco used increases the degree of damage to artery walls. Quitting smoking is paramount in the fight against PAD and leg pain.

References

• Overview
• PAD; Numbness; Cold; Slow Healing; Aches
• Shrinking Calves and Tough Toenails; USC Vascular Care Center