Slow-healing wounds on the feet or legs may be more than just a skin problem — they could be a warning sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD). This condition happens when arteries narrow and limit blood flow to the limbs. More than 21 million Americans are estimated to have PAD, yet many don’t know it. Because symptoms like leg fatigue or discomfort are often mistaken for normal aging, the disease is often missed until it has become dangerous.
PAD can look different in men and women. Men often report leg pain while walking, while women may notice achy or tired legs that sometimes bother them even at rest. Women are also diagnosed later, which raises the risk of disability. Other warning signs include numbness or tingling in the feet, loss of leg hair, shiny or pale skin, and sores that don’t heal.
Doctors can diagnose PAD with simple, noninvasive tests like an ankle-brachial index or ultrasound. Treatment depends on how advanced it is, ranging from lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and exercising, to medications that improve circulation. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. Detecting PAD early is critical since untreated disease can lead to infections, amputations, heart attacks, and strokes.
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