Peripheral Arterial Disease: Know Your Risk

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At NY Foot Health, we’re committed to helping New Yorkers be proactive in the health of their feet. Sometimes conditions that affect your feet may also affect the rest of your body. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a disorder that falls into this category.

PAD Basics

PAD is the blockage or narrowing of the arteries on your legs brought about by a buildup of plaque or fatty deposits in the arteries. It results in a restriction of blood flow or what’s more commonly called “poor circulation.” When an adequate amount of oxygen-rich blood can’t get to your feet, they’re more likely to develop sores and wounds that won’t heal. You then run the risk of infection and even possible amputation. In fact, PAD and diabetes are the leading causes of foot and leg amputation in the U.S.

Are You at Risk?

Several factors raise your risk for PAD. If you have specific other health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, you have a greater chance of developing PAD. Other lifestyle choices also increase your risk for PAD. These include:

  • Smoking

  • Being overweight or obese

  • Physical inactivity

Currently, estimates are somewhere between 8 and 12 million Americans have PAD. In people over the age of 70, one in every five has the disease.

Recognizing and Treating PAD

Symptoms of PAD can include pain or cramping in your leg, thighs, or buttocks that usually happens when you walk but stops when you rest. You may also experience foot or toe pain that wakes you up from sleep, skin wounds, or ulcers that seem slow to heal, and a loss of hair on your legs and toes. It is possible to have PAD and not experience symptoms, however.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should make an appointment with your podiatrist to get them evaluated as soon as possible. If you need to find a podiatrist in your town, use our online directory. To learn more, contact us.

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