What is a common effect of peripheral arterial disease?

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is characterized by narrowed arteries that reduce blood flow to the limbs, particularly the legs. This decreased circulation often leads to symptoms such as limb ischemia, especially during exertion. When the muscles require more oxygen during activities like walking or exercising, the insufficient blood flow becomes apparent, resulting in pain or cramping known as intermittent claudication. This symptom is a direct consequence of the reduced blood supply that occurs with PAD.

Increased blood flow and enhanced wound healing are not typical effects of PAD; in fact, the opposite is often true because the compromised circulation impairs healing. Variable pulse quality may occur as well due to the varying levels of blood flow, but it is not as definitive or characteristic of the disease as limb ischemia during exertion. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the most direct and common outcome faced by individuals with peripheral arterial disease.