If you smoke, have high blood pressure or diabetes, and are above 60 years, your risk for developing peripheral arterial disease is high. Studies suggest that around 6.5 million Americans aged over 40 have been diagnosed with the condition. The worst part is most of them are not aware of the signs and symptoms until it is too late. The only way to clear your doubts is by seeing a specialist for peripheral arterial disease in El Paso. Book an appointment with the Desert West Vein & Surgery Center team if you notice the following signs for PAD:
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1. Painful Cramping
If you have noticed that your legs ache when walking or climbing stairs, you could be having PAD. The aching might subside when you take a rest. See a vein specialist to determine if it is a sign of PAD or any other condition.
2. Numbness or Weakness
Generally, your legs and feet are supposed to hold your body’s weight while walking. If you notice that your legs or feet get weak or numb even as you take a rest, you could be experiencing PAD.
3. Slowed Toenail Growth
Your toenails are supposed to grow steadily no matter how many times you clip them. When you notice stunted growth, you could be dealing with PAD.
4. Wounds That Never Seem to Heal
Wounds take time to heal depending on your treatment methods and body mechanism. Wounds that do not seem to get better after taking precautionary methods and medications could indicate that your arteries are constricting. Over time, your wounds may turn into sores, at this point, amputation may be the last resort to treatment.
5. Abnormal Skin Color
Healthy-looking skin should be even and well-balanced, if you notice that the color of your legs turn bluish, you could be developing PAD. When this happens, it means your blood is not flowing into your legs as it should.
6. Erectile Dysfunction in Men
For an erection to occur, blood should flow into the penis and other parts of your leg. If you have PAD, chances are you may develop erectile dysfunction. Do not ignore this warning sign hoping things will get better with time.
7. Delayed Hair Growth in Legs and Feet
Healthy blood flow in the legs influences hair growth. Suppose you notice that your leg’s hair delays in growing, you could be experiencing PAD. Do not wait until the remaining hairs start to fall off to see a specialist.
8. Developing Cold Feet
In a situation where your foot or legs feel colder than usual, your chances of having PAD could be high. This indicates that insufficient blood is flowing to your legs.
See a PAD Specialist for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment
These PAD symptoms can become serious if you do not see a doctor right away, coincidentally, they could mean that you have developed other conditions. Still, it is better to confirm your worst fears than waiting until PAD affects your feet to the point of amputation. The Deep West Vein & Surgery Center is ready to determine if you have PAD and tailor the best treatment plan to restore your quality of life. To learn more about the risk factors for PAD, schedule an appointment with a vein specialist.