How does peripheral arterial disease affect your feet?
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when there is plaque build-up in the arterial walls. This decreases the blood flow in the arteries and prevents oxygen from reaching the legs, causing foot problems.
Symptoms
of PAD
- Pain while walking
- Pain when lying down
- Numbness in feet
- Weakness in feet
- Cold feet
- Sores
- Change in skin color
- Loss of hair on feet
- Change in toe color
- Brittle toe nails
Risk Factors for PAD
- Being over 50 years of
age
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Family history of PAD
or heart disease
- Sedentary lifestyle
How is PAD diagnosed?
The
podiatrist will do a physical examination, and based on the condition of your
feet may suggest further tests. This could include blood tests to check blood
levels. There may be further non-invasive tests like the ankle-brachial index
to assess for PAD.
Also Read: How to Prevent Nail Problems and Injuries
Treatment
of PAD
- Lifestyle changes like
stopping smoking, regular exercise and a balanced diet.
- Medications like blood
thinners and pills to control diabetes and blood pressure.
- Surgery, in severe
cases.
Complications
of PAD
If
left untreated, PAD can cause foot deformities like hammertoes and bunions. Toe
Nail Problems,
like ingrown toe nails and fungal problems, can become more serious for someone
with PAD. Since PAD prevents sufficient oxygen from reaching the legs, even
small cuts, blisters or sores, can result in serious complications as wounds
take a long time to heal.
Avoiding
PAD Complications
- Maintain foot hygiene
- Keep feet well
moisturized
- Prevent cracked heels
- Trim toe nails
regularly
- Wear shoes and socks to
avoid injuries or bruises
- Wear correct fitting
shoes to avoid pinching or blisters
A
person with PAD should have a regular consult with a podiatrist for continuous
monitoring of his/her feet. With a bit of care, the complications related to
PAD can be prevented.
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