Know Your Risk for Peripheral Arterial Disease

/

At Texas Foot Specialists we know that there are many diseases that can impact the health of your feet. One of them is Peripheral Arterial Disease or PAD. This condition occurs when the arteries in your legs are narrowed, and blood flow is restricted due to an accumulation of plaque and cholesterol on the artery walls. Sometimes referred to as “poor circulation,” it’s important to recognize that PAD is not a benign condition that “just happens” to older people. This is a serious medical problem that if undetected and untreated can lead to a stroke or heart attack.

Evaluating Risk Factors

Sometimes there are symptoms of PAD that may manifest in your legs and feet, including:

  • Loss of hair on your legs, feet, and toes

  • Cramping

  • Sores that don’t seem to be healing

  • Feet feeling cold all the time

  • Discoloration in skin

  • Toenail changes

For many people, however, there are no obvious symptoms. For this reason, it’s good to know other factors that may put you at higher risk for this condition. Some of them are:

  • You’re over the age of 50

  • Have other medical conditions associated with PAD like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes

  • Family history of PAD

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Smoking

If you’re concerned about PAD, discuss your risk factors with our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum at your next appointment at our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600), or Houston (713-664-6677) office. Fortunately, there are several ways you can reduce your chances of developing PAD and also reduce the risk of complications to your feet. After examining your feet and legs and getting a complete medical history, the foot doctor may recommend that you make some of the following lifestyle changes:

  • Quit smoking

  • Make dietary changes that will reduce cholesterol

  • Commit to a regular exercise program

  • Get in the habit of examining your feet regularly so you can spot any telltale symptoms promptly

To learn more about PAD and how to lower your risk, contact us today.