An arterial embolism is a clot that suddenly jams a downstream artery, cutting off oxygen to the limb or organ it feeds. Symptoms appear fast—often within minutes to an hour.

Sudden pain is the headline. It feels like a deep, severe cramp or “charley horse” that hits without warning and doesn’t ease with stretching.

Pale or white skin follows. The limb loses its pink color and looks “washed out” compared to the other side.

Cold to the touch is classic. The skin feels cool or even cold when you lay your hand on it.

Weak or absent pulse shows up. You can’t feel a pulse below the blockage, or it’s much weaker than the opposite limb.

Numbness or tingling spreads. Fingers or toes feel “asleep,” heavy, or like they’re wrapped in cotton.

Late alarms include blue or mottled skin, muscle weakness, or paralysis—signs tissue is starting to die and time is critical.