While heart attacks capture the most attention, preventing them often starts with recognizing the warning signs of underlying conditions like Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This common cardiovascular disease, characterized by narrowed arteries due to cholesterol buildup (atherosclerosis), significantly raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. A telling, yet often overlooked, symptom of PAD can appear in your toenails.
According to the UK's National Health Service (NHS), brittle, slow-growing toenails can be a key indicator of PAD. This happens because restricted blood flow, caused by narrowed arteries, fails to deliver enough oxygen to the nail beds, impairing nail growth and health.
PAD most commonly affects the legs and feet. Beyond toenail changes, be aware of other symptoms, including:
* Leg pain or cramps, especially when walking (claudication)
* Hair loss on the legs and feet
* Numbness or weakness in the legs
* Shiny or discolored skin on the lower extremities
* Non-healing wounds on the feet or toes
If you experience any of these signs, consult a doctor. They can perform simple, non-invasive tests like an ankle-brachial index (comparing blood pressure in your ankles and arms) or imaging scans to diagnose PAD. Treatments range from medications like aspirin to improve blood flow, to surgical procedures for severe blockages.
To protect your heart and prevent PAD, manage key risk factors: control diabetes, high cholesterol, and blood pressure, maintain a healthy weight, and if you smoke, quitting is critical, as smoking is a leading cause of the disease.
