PAD, Peripheral Artery Disease

Do you know that in the U.S alone 8 to 12 million people are suffering from PAD, more commonly known as poor circulation. The scary thing is that each year these numbers seem to be steadily increasing because of peoples life style. Smoking, junk food, obesity and lack of activity are just some of the factors contributing to poor circulation. If not treated bad circulation can lead to serious conditions such as; heart attacks, stroke, amputation and in worst case, death.

If you are living with any of these risk factors and are over the age of 50, you should see a doctor for examination if you are suffering from any of the following symptoms: Cramping or fatigue in the legs, buttocks or feet during activity. Cramping or pain in your legs while sitting for long periods of time. Your legs and/or feet "fall asleep" while sitting or sleeping. Tired, aching feet, or swelling of the feet and legs. Lower temperature in the legs and feet compared with the rest of the body.

The biggest effect that can come about as a result of poor circulation in the legs and feet is that sores and injuries don't heal as fast as they used to, and in some cases they will not heal at all without special care. The reason for this is the blood carries oxygen and other vital elements the body tissues need for healing and vitality. Without good circulation carrying blood and nutrients to the lower extremities, healing time is greatly extended.

For example Cellulitis. Cellulitis is a spreading bacterial infection of the skin and tissues just below the skin caused by Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria. It can surface as a result of a cut or sore on the feet or legs, but can also occur on healthy tissue. Cellulitis can take more than 10 days to heal with good, healthy, tissue. In the presence of poor circulation, it might take weeks, even with special care.

Some other complications bad circulation can cause are gangrene that can lead to amputation of a foot or leg, or a blood clot also known as Deep Vein Thrombosis, DVT. The effects of gangrene and amputation are obvious, but DVT or blood clots can also lead to serious illness and death. If a blood clot dislodges from the vein, pieces of it can travel through the circulatory system and reach the heart where it can clog the valves of the heart and cause a heart attack.

These are just a few of the effects that can be caused by poor circulation and as you can see it can become quite serious. With a little bit of knowledge, bad circulation can easily be prevented and/or treated but if you feel you are at risk you should see a doctor as soon as possible. If your condition has not got to bad you can treat bad circulation on your own and if your way of living is not the healthiest you should take measures to prevent this condition.