PAD Awareness Month aims to bring attention to the fact that PAD can be a silent killer. Many people with PAD often do not realize that they have it. The reason is because people often dismiss the symptoms as just as sign of “getting older”.
PAD is a chronic circulatory condition that is estimated to affect around to 8 to 12 million Americans. It involves narrowing of the peripheral arteries that carry blood away from the heart to the other parts of the body. PAD can happen in any blood vessel but it is more common in the legs. If left untreated, this can result in unnecessary limb amputations. It is estimated that 200,000 people suffer avoidable amputations each year.
What is PAD?
This is a circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, more commonly the lower extremities. When PAD develops on the legs, the insufficient blood flow may cause symptoms like leg pain when walking.
What are the risk factors for PAD?
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Personal / Family History of Heart Attack or Stroke
- Diabetes
- Atherosclerosis
- High Cholesterol
- Age above 60 years
Symptoms
If you are older than 50 years old, experiencing leg pain, and have the risk factors, talk to your doctor about PAD. Symptoms of PAD to look for in the legs include:
- Pain or cramping after activity
- Leg Weakness
- Numbness
- Foot or lower leg may feel cold
- Sores or ulcers that won’t heal
- Discoloration or bluish color to the skin
- Hair loss on the feet and legs
- Shiny skin
- Weak pulse
If you think you may have PAD, a simple, painless ultrasound or imaging test can show the blood flow in your legs to determine your risk. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising, and eating healthier, as well as certain medications and therapies can often be used to manage many cases of PAD.
Early detection and intervention can prevent loss of limbs and life. Visit us at NaplesPodiatrist.com or call (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) to schedule a consultation.
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