Klaudikasjon

Klaudikasjon, the Norwegian term for intermittent claudication, describes leg pain, cramping, or fatigue that is triggered by walking and relieved by rest. It reflects insufficient blood flow to the leg muscles, most commonly caused by atherosclerotic narrowing of the peripheral arteries, particularly in the femoropopliteal segment.

Patients typically notice reproducible symptoms during physical activity, usually starting in the calf but sometimes in the thigh or buttock. The discomfort is relieved within minutes by stopping activity and resting. In advanced disease, pain can occur at shorter walking distances and may be accompanied by numbness, weakness, or a feeling of coldness in the leg. On examination, pulses below the affected segment may be diminished or absent, and the leg skin can appear cool or pale with trophic changes over time.

Diagnosis combines history with objective testing. The ankle–brachial index (ABI) is a standard initial test; an abnormal ABI supports peripheral arterial disease. Imaging studies such as duplex ultrasound, computed tomography angiography, or magnetic resonance angiography help delineate the location and severity of arterial narrowing and guide treatment decisions.

Management focuses on risk factor modification and symptom relief. Smoking cessation, control of diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia are essential. Supervised exercise therapy is among the most effective nonsurgical treatments. Pharmacologic options include antiplatelet therapy and statins; cilostazol may improve walking distance in some patients. Revascularization, via endovascular procedures or surgical bypass, is considered for those with persistent symptoms or threatened limb viability.

Klaudikasjon indicates underlying peripheral arterial disease and requires systematic evaluation and multidisciplinary management to improve function and reduce cardiovascular risk.