PAD

How is your heart health? February is American Heart Month, and this is one of the best times to remind our patients of the importance of keeping a healthy heart. Each year, millions of Americans learn to manage a condition commonly referred to as PAD. The full name is peripheral arterial disease. A blockage in the blood vessels from the heart to the legs is the cause of this disease. Of course, this blockage can occur throughout the body. The legs and the arms are most common, though.

The doctors at the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group hope to ring the alarm about this disease. Among the risk factors is a condition that our doctors frequently treat: diabetes. If you have diabetes, keep reading this post. It may help you learn more about your risk.

What are the other risk factors? Ask yourself these questions.

  • Do you smoke?
  • Are you aware that you have high blood pressure?
  • Do you have high cholesterol?
  • Are you older than 60 years of age?
  • Have you been diagnosed with atherosclerosis?

What are the symptoms?

The top symptom is when patients notice that they have pain in their legs. They may have pain while walking or even exercising. Not all patients have leg pain, though. Here are some signs that you may be able to observe or feel:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Hair loss on your legs
  • Cold or numb toes
  • Non-healing wounds

What are tips for prevention?

We’re here to help. Share these tips with your friends and family to help them reduce their risk.

  • Get moving! Physical activity has many benefits, including lowering your risk for heart disease.
  • Stop smoking! This habit not only increases your risk for developing this disease but also worsens symptoms if you have already received a diagnosis.
  • Take control! Managing your health is one of the best ways to prevent PAD. Monitor your blood sugar levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and other factors.

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, contact us today. We’re here to provide the treatment and support that you need. Unfortunately, if you have PAD, you are also at risk for developing other conditions that could cause a stroke.

At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.