Peripheral artery disease is dangerous and often hard to detect

Where Does it Hurt?

Do your legs hurt?

Let’s not cut hairs about what kind of pain you may be feeling, or if it’s mild, or if it’s on and off, or if it’s chronic.

If you simply and honestly answered that question with a “yes,” it’s time to see a doctor. And during that visit, there are two important questions to ask.

Didn’t see it coming

Frequent numbness in the legs, a prickly feeling, or especially leg pain while walking or exercising are all red flags. The danger: peripheral artery disease (PAD).

That’s the personal danger. As a public health issue, the PAD danger is under-diagnosis and under-treatment. Canadian researchers believe they’ve pinpointed the problem: Doctors are not diligent about screening for this very dangerous condition.

In PAD, narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs. This is not unusual for diabetics. But they’re not the only group at risk. The University of Alberta team recommends PAD screening for everyone over the age of 40.

In the Alberta study, more than 360 volunteers were screened for PAD. Seventeen subjects tested positive. But most significantly, nearly all the subjects were unaware they had any problem at all.

That lack of awareness can be fatal.

PAD quadruples your risk of heart attack or stroke. As one of the Alberta researchers told Medical News Today, PAD should be considered just as critical as heart disease.

In addition to the symptoms I’ve already mentioned, pain in the toes at night, cold or numb spots on the legs, and open sores that won’t heal are important PAD danger signs.

Two to remember

So your legs hurt. You go to the doctor. Screening prompts a PAD diagnosis. Now it’s time to ask your doctor two questions.

Question One: Am I healthy enough to exercise?

In an e-Alert I sent you earlier this year, I told you about a six-month trial that tested different exercises in more than 150 PAD patients. Results showed that regular treadmill exercise was most effective in improving blood vessel dilation, walking performance, and physical functioning.

Question Two: Should I consider an herbal treatment?

Years ago, an HSI Members Alert featured a unique supplement called Padma Basic. This blend of 20 herbs is based on a traditional Tibetan formula. Research shows that Padma Basic helps some PAD patients extend the distance they’re able to walk without pain. Padma Basic is made by EcoNugenics (econugenics.com).

And one more note for diabetics: The American Diabetic Association recommends regular PAD testing for all diabetics over 50. This is especially important if you have leg pains. Younger diabetics should also be screened for PAD if they’ve had diabetes for more than a decade. Smoking and high blood pressure increases risk.

Source:
“Peripheral Artery Disease – Angina In The Legs?” Medical News Today, 10/27/09, medicalnewstoday.com