Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is the narrowing or blockage of the arteries in the lower extremity. The inner walls of arteries are normally smooth which facilitates the flow of blood. PAD results when the diameter of arteries are narrowed from plaque formation on the walls. This narrowing reduces the amount of oxygen rich blood actually reaching the legs, feet and toes. PAD will progressively worsen over time if it is not addressed and treated effectively.
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Symptoms
Mild PAD may be asymptomatic but will progress to pain in the legs with exertion or exercise, to pain in the legs when resting and eventually to tissue death involving skin wounds and gangrene. Pain is most commonly felt in the very tips of our lower extremity, our toes and will move closer to the body’s core as it becomes more involved. The toes will be cold and may burn or ache. The colour of the skin will change, appearing mottled, reddish or purplish. If skin becomes broken or scratched, healing is jeopardised wounds may never heal.
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Causes
When the toes show signs and symptoms of reduced blood flow and nourishment from oxygen, the cause stems from PAD itself. The walls of the arteries are narrowed or blocked, decreasing or preventing the oxygenated blood from reaching legs, feet and toes. The risk factors for PAD, also known as atherosclerosis, include smoking, diabetes, are over the age of 50, family history of heart or blood vessel disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
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Treatment
If pain and changes in the skin is noticed in the toes and feet, it is important to seek the advice of a primary care professional or BioPed clinician immediately. PAD prognosis can improve with exercise and getting blood pressure and cholesterol under control. Early diagnosis and positive lifestyle changes can prevent PAD from getting worse. Certain medications may be required to control the disease process and increase comfort and function. Surgery is always a last resort, but it may be needed to prevent tissue death, amputation and to keep a person alive.
