Peripheral Vascular Disease Often Goes Undetected

The effects of peripheral vascular disease can be devastating. At least 12 millions Americans have the disease, which can cause people to have difficulty walking, leg pain and, in severe cases, painful foot ulcers and infections that could lead to surgery. Early intervention can minimize treatments, yet the disease often goes undiagnosed.

Difficult to Diagnose

Symptoms of peripheral vascular disease often aren’t present until the blockage is severe. But even when symptoms are present, they are difficult to recognize.

Still there are things you can watch for and ask your physician about, such as:

• Pain in the muscles while walking
• Pain in the ball of the foot or the toes
• Ulcers or sores on the foot, ankle or toes that will not heal
• Blue or black discoloration of the toes

Risk Factors

Diabetes is perhaps one of the biggest risk factors. Studies suggest that one in three diabetics over age 50 may have peripheral vascular disease or peripheral arterial disease. The American Diabetic Association recommends screening all diabetics at age 50 initially, and repeating the screening every five years. According to the American Vascular Association, other major risk factors include:

• Hypertension
• Smoking
• High cholesterol
• Family history of vascular disease

If you suspect you have vascular disease, call your physician.

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