If you’ve never heard of peripheral artery disease (PAD), you are not alone. However, catching it early could protect your long-term health in a big way.
Peripheral artery disease is a condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your legs and feet. It often creeps in quietly, without obvious symptoms, and when left untreated, it can lead to serious complications like limb loss or even heart attack. Early detection gives you options, time, and a plan to manage the condition before it takes a toll.
Why Early Detection Matters
You might think a little leg pain is just part of getting older. However, in some cases, it is your body’s early warning sign. When peripheral artery disease goes undiagnosed, it can cause ulcers, infections, and eventually gangrene. In severe cases, amputation becomes a real possibility.
Even more concerning, PAD often goes hand-in-hand with heart disease. People with PAD are at a higher risk of stroke and heart attack. Consequently, catching it early can save your limb and life.
The Signs and Risk Factors
Peripheral artery disease can be sneaky. Some people never notice symptoms until the disease is already advanced. Others chalk up their symptoms to something else entirely. Here’s what to watch for:
Common symptoms include:
- Pain, cramping, or heaviness in your legs while walking
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower legs or feet
- Cold feet or toes
- Sores that won’t heal
- Discoloration or shiny skin on the legs
You are more likely to develop PAD if you:
- Smoke or have smoked in the past
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
- Are over 50, especially if you have a family history of heart or vascular disease
- Are African American or Hispanic, who may be at higher risk
If any of that sounds familiar, it is time to take the next step: screening.
Get Screened Early
At the Center for Vascular Care at HCA, we take early detection seriously. We offer quick, painless screening using a tool called the ankle-brachial index (ABI) test. It compares the blood pressure in your ankle with the blood pressure in your arm. A lower reading can be an early clue that blood flow to your legs is restricted.
The ABI test is non-invasive, simple, and takes just a few minutes. There is no prep needed, and you will be able to return to your day immediately after. If your results show signs of peripheral artery disease, we will walk you through the next steps, whether that is lifestyle changes, medications, or treatment to restore circulation. Our team works alongside you to create a plan that supports your goals and protects your quality of life.
If you have risk factors or symptoms, don’t wait. PAD does not always announce itself, and the longer it goes undetected, the more damage it can do. Visit the Center for Vascular Care at HCA to schedule your screening today.
Take control of your health: get screened, get answers, and get ahead of peripheral artery disease.