If you’re a regular of our blog, you’ve likely heard plenty about the catastrophic situations that can arise from untreated Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). Today, we’d like to dig into the simple struggles that PAD presents on a day-to-day basis. The truth is that the challenges of PAD come daily, and even when PAD is well-managed, the problems will linger until the blockages causing the condition are properly controlled.
Pain, Aches and Cramping While Walking
This is the single-most classic symptom of PAD and is very often the first symptom that clues people into their condition. The worst part about this situation is that while walking is good for you and can even help combat the disease, walking with PAD is often a painful endeavor. It’s a no-win situation.
We constantly see patients that have grown to resent their staircase because every trip up the stairs leaves them with throbbing leg pain. In fact, even a mild case of PAD can begin to rob people of their mobility. That’s why it’s critical to take every potential symptom seriously.
If you are experiencing leg pain or ANY of the more severe signs or symptoms discussed here, don’t let this stop you from getting the treatment you need. Go to Lam Vascular & Associates.
Muscle Atrophy
Loss of mobility isn’t just a result of walking less because of leg pain. Even if you make an effort to maintain strength in a limb affected by PAD, the decreased blood flow means that you will always be battling muscle weakness. Muscle atrophy is one of many reasons why early and effective intervention is critical to the proper treatment of PAD.
Sores on Legs or Feet That Don’t Heal
It’s not all about leg pain when it comes to the daily struggles of PAD. Restricted blood flow also makes healing even minor injuries much harder for the body. Especially when coupled with diabetes, a small cut or even a blister can become a life-threatening wound or infection. If you have PAD and have a sore or cut on your foot, don’t take any chances. Seek medical advice right away.
Cold or Numb Toes
Persistently numb or cold toes are other symptoms that often cause discomfort in the lives of PAD sufferers. Not only is this annoying on its own but PAD actually can make some socks dangerous to wear. Socks that are too tight or fit poorly causing blisters are a serious danger for those with PAD. So not only can Peripheral Artery Disease make your feet cold, but it makes it harder to shop for socks, too.
Your Next Step
So there you have it; the host of challenges that are a reality for people who suffer from PAD. If you suspect you have PAD, the only effective route to recovery is seeking treatment with an expert. Dr. Lam is highly praised within the medical community because of his ability to find solutions that work.
Schedule an initial appointment today if you need help better managing your PAD (or are experiencing any symptoms of PAD). Lam Vascular & Associates has convenient locations in Dallas, Rockwall and Arlington Texas.
The information contained in this article is not intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice. Patient results will vary based on risk factors, age, disease and medical history and are not guaranteed in any way.
