Many patients come into my office and tell me they think their leg pain is just part of getting older. That may be true sometimes, but not always. If you're having trouble walking like you used to, or if your legs often feel tired, achy, or cold, it could be a sign of something called Peripheral Artery Disease, or PAD.
PAD is more common than you might think, especially in people over 60. The good news is that it's treatable, especially when we catch it early. But it's important to know what to look for.
What Is PAD?
PAD happens when the blood vessels in your legs become narrow or blocked. This makes it harder for blood to flow to your legs and feet. When your muscles don’t get enough blood, they can start to hurt, especially when you’re walking or doing something active.
This is not just normal aging. It’s a medical problem that needs attention.
Common Signs of PAD
Here are a few things to watch out for:
- Pain or cramping in your legs when you walk, but the pain goes away when you rest
- Legs or feet that feel cold, especially on one side
- Numbness or weakness in your legs
- Sores or cuts on your feet that take a long time to heal
- Hair loss on your legs
- Slower walking speed than usual
These symptoms can sneak up on you. Many people don’t realize they have PAD until the problem becomes more serious. That’s why patients are encouraged to speak up if they notice changes in how their legs feel or work.
Is It Just Aging?
Yes, our bodies do change with age. Muscles get a little weaker, joints may ache, and we slow down a bit. But if you notice new pain when walking, or if you're not able to walk as far as you used to, that’s not just aging. That’s a red flag.
If you’ve been a smoker, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, your chances of having PAD go up. If you have a family history of heart or vascular problems, that also puts you at greater risk.
What You Can Do
The first step is simple…get checked. At our office, we can do a quick, painless test to see how well blood is flowing to your legs. It only takes a few minutes, and it can give us a clear picture of what’s going on.
If we catch PAD early, we can often manage it with walking programs, medication, and healthy lifestyle changes. In more advanced cases, we have treatments to help improve blood flow and get you back on your feet.
Contact Vascular Associates of South Alabama Today!
If your legs are giving you trouble, don’t assume it’s just part of getting older. Let’s take a closer look and make sure nothing is being missed.
Call Vascular Associates of South Alabama today to schedule a screening. We’re here to help.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.