Peripheral Arterial Disease or PAD is a circulatory disease that is a result of narrowed arteries in your body that can ultimately lead to reduced blood flow in your limbs. Peripheral arteries are important because they are in charge of bringing blood to your arms and legs.
What does it mean if I have PAD
- It may mean you have plaque buildup in your arteries/body
- It may result in reduced blood flow to your heart, brain, and limbs
- It may also lead to stroke or a heart attack
Am I at risk of developing PAD?
The risk factors of PAD include:
- Over the age of 50
- Smoking (currently or in the past)
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Personal or family history or PAD, heart disease, heart attack, or stroke
- Lack of exercise
It is not common to experience limited/no symptoms in the early stages of the disease but the long terms effects are drastic.
What are the Symptoms of PAD
- Leg pain (cramping while walking or lying down
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Cold legs/feet
- Sores that don’t heal on your toes/feet/legs
- Change in leg color
- Loss of hair on feet or legs
- Toenail color and thickness changes
How to Treat Foot Conditions Related to PAD
- Bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, thickened fungal nails
- Can lead to blisters/sores
- Blisters/sores may not heal due to PAD
- Diabetes and PAD
- Blisters/sores can go unnoticed
Need treatment for your PAD related foot issues? Call us to make an appointment! 301-441-2655
