Final answer:
Intermittent claudication is a symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD), characterized by leg pain during walking that subsides with rest.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term intermittent claudication refers to a symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the narrowing of arteries due to atherosclerosis, typically in the legs. Those with PAD may experience pain and discomfort in the legs while walking, a pain that generally stops during rest. This pattern of pain is what is identified as intermittent claudication. PAD can also lead to other symptoms such as skin ulcers, bluish skin, cold skin, or poor nail and hair growth on the affected limbs.
Understanding intermittent claudication is essential for the diagnosis and management of PAD, as it can prevent further complications such as heart attacks. Additionally, stable angina, which is pain precipitated by exertion like walking and eases with rest, can be differentiated from intermittent claudication, though both relate to conditions where blood flow is restricted during activity.