Does your foot hold clues to any possible heart problems?
Indications to our health can be seen from unexpected places in our body. One example is your feet. It could be telling you about an issue with your arteries, the blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from your heart to other parts of your body. Thus, your foot hold clues!
Signs and Symptoms
Signs such as having cold feet or one foot that feels colder than the other may imply that you have peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD occurs when cholesterol, fat, and other substances that make up plaque, build up in the linings of the arteries of the legs and feet. They are also called clogged arteries or atherosclerosis. This build-up reduces circulation to areas that are far away from the heart – like feet. Often when people have clogged arteries of the heart or carotids, the first sign is PAD of the legs. It can cause discomfort in your feet and legs and limit your activities and walking. It has been found that people who have trouble walking distances because of cramps, whose legs get tired easily or are painful should be tested for PAD. Also, people who are past or current smokers or who has a family history of PAD.
Assessment Needed
One easy way to test for PAD is to check the pulses in your feet by your podiatrist. There should be two pulses in each foot that are easily identified by your podiatrist. This assessment is utilized to determine if the blood flow to your feet is normal.
It is to be noted that when plaque formed in your arteries, it affects the arteries all over your body. Hence, if you have PAD, you are more prone of having a heart attack or stroke. Lifestyle changes which includes stopping smoking and medications are essential for patients who have an indication of a decrease in the blood flow in their legs and feet.
We are also now offering an atrial fibrillation check (abnormal heart beat). PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE!
Are you suffering from this condition or other foot problems? One of our podiatrist can assist and then recommend what nonsurgical treatments are best to get you back on track. ✅
Schedule an appointment here or you may call us at +44 (0) 207 101 4000. 📞
We hope you have a feetastic day! 👣☀️
-The Chelsea Clinic and Team
