Time doesn’t always heal all wounds.
Pain in the toes, feet, or lower legs, whether slow to heal or not healing at all, can be a sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD). This is a serious and often silent condition where narrowed arteries limit blood flow, particularly to the legs and arms.
“Many individuals with PAD may not show any notable symptoms, particularly in the early stages,” explains Jennifer Jones-McMeans, the VP of Global Clinical Affairs at Abbott. “Some might even confuse symptoms like leg tiredness and discomfort for just normal aging.”
Research indicates that approximately 21 million Americans are living with PAD, often due to a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in their arteries.
This article dives into key facts about the condition and highlights symptoms that are more commonly reported in men than women.
Risk Factors for PAD
The likelihood of developing PAD increases significantly with age, particularly after 50. Various factors, including genetics, health conditions, and lifestyle choices, play a role.
“Family history of smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or vascular disease can heighten risks,” continues Jones-McMeans. “Moreover, Black and Hispanic communities are disproportionately affected.”
Women face additional challenges, as they’re often diagnosed later in the progression of PAD, leading to more significant functional declines, such as slower walking speeds.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of PAD is pain while walking. While men frequently report this, women might experience discomfort in their feet even during moments of rest.
Older women might also attribute their leg pain to other issues, like arthritis or nerve-related conditions, making diagnosis more complicated.
Other common symptoms can include numbness, tingling, weakness, coldness, and hair loss in the legs. The skin may change color, appearing pale or bluish, and may become shiny and smooth.
If a wound occurs, it might show signs of dryness, discoloration, or scabbing. “Sometimes, the skin around wounds can look shiny or cool to the touch,” notes Jones-McMeans. “These wounds indicate poor blood flow and can significantly slow down healing.” It’s essential to see a doctor when experiencing these symptoms. “Catching the problem early can avert serious complications,” she adds.
Diagnosis of PAD
Diagnosing PAD can involve several non-invasive or minimally invasive tests.
One common test is the ankle-brachial index (ABI), which compares blood pressure in the ankle with that in the arm. Other methods may include ultrasound that examines blood flow or angiography that offers a more detailed view of blood vessels.
Treatment Options for PAD
Without treatment, PAD can worsen over time. “In severe cases, it might lead to limb ischemia, where tissue can die from lack of blood flow,” Jones-McMeans warns. This may eventually necessitate amputation.
Compromised blood flow can also raise the risk of infections, heart attacks, and strokes. Treatment typically aims to enhance blood circulation and address underlying health issues.
This can involve lifestyle changes—like quitting smoking, adopting a healthier diet, and engaging in more physical activity. Medications may be prescribed to lower cholesterol or blood pressure and promote better circulation. In more severe instances, procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery might be necessary.
