Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Doctors have warned that minor changes in the shape or condition of the foot may be an early indicator of serious diseases.
The most prominent of these diseases is peripheral arterial disease, one of the most serious vascular diseases.
This disease causes narrowing or blockage of the arteries responsible for delivering blood to the legs and feet, which greatly impairs blood circulation.
Despite its danger, it often begins without obvious symptoms.
Which leads many to ignore early signs such as fatigue or leg pain.
Mounir Hourani, a vascular surgeon and member of the Vascular Surgery Society, said that one of the most prominent indicators of the development of the disease is the appearance of ulcers that do not heal in the toes or the foot itself.
He explained, “These sores usually begin as a small rash and then turn into an open wound that exposes the soft tissues under the skin, and often appear at the tips of the nails or the ends of the fingers”.
Other symptoms include: hair loss on the legs and feet, pale or shiny skin, thinning of the leg muscles, and fever of the feet compared to the rest of the body.
In advanced stages, the patient may feel severe pain or burning in the toes, even at rest.
Studies indicate that one in 20 people in the United States has the disease, but three in four are unaware of their infection.
It is most common after the age of sixty-five, especially in patients with diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, smokers, and obesity.
Statistics show that 33 percent of those infected die within 5 years of diagnosis.
While 20 percent suffer heart attacks or strokes, about 150,000 patients undergo amputations annually.
Treatment includes lifestyle changes such as regular walking, a healthy diet, and quitting smoking.
In addition to medications to lower cholesterol and prevent clots.
Advanced cases require surgery to widen the arteries and restore blood flow.
