If you are someone that has been diagnosed with vascular disease, it is important to routinely examine your legs and feet to ensure this disease is not affecting your lower extremities as well. The podiatrists at Alpine Foot Specialists work hard to help prevent any complications one may obtain from vascular disease of the feet, legs, and thighs, known as Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD). We suggest that you schedule a foot screening every ten weeks so we can trim your nails, calluses, and corns, treat ingrown toenails, and evaluate the feet for possible deformities that could be of concern.
What is Peripheral Vascular Disease?
Peripheral Vascular Disease is a condition in which blood vessels in the feet, legs, or thighs narrow and restrict blood flow to these extremities. This is often caused by build up of plaque in the blood vessels (atherosclerosis) and individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, advanced age, and those that smoke or are inactive are more susceptible to PVD.
Signs of PVD
There are several different symptoms that can indicate possible signs of peripheral vascular disease. Some of these include discoloration, thinning, and coolness to the skin, diminished hair and nail growth, fatigue, aching, cramping of the feet and legs when walking, and foot pain when resting. Additionally, it is crucial to examine your feet on a daily basis for signs of infection. Signs of PVD infection can include redness, swelling, drainage, odor and pain.
For those diagnosed with vascular disease or anyone that may have a heightened risk for PVD, schedule an appointment at Alpine Foot Specialists for a routine foot screening today! Talk to our podiatrists about the best ways to examine your legs and feet to help prevent and avoid any PVD complications.
Courtesy of: Dysvascular Foot Care