At some point in life, everyone has experienced minor leg health problems such as muscle cramps. A lot of the times, we face these issues during activities such as sports. However, there are times when our leg issues go beyond minor injuries. According to the spokesperson of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, legs act as a mirror into our health. Therefore, it is important not to ignore leg health problems because they might be giving you an indication of a bigger problem. Below are the leg health issues that might be signaling the existence of a more severe illness.
1. Swollen Legs
Swollen legs are a common thing, especially for older women. At times, it may not be as severe as we might think. It may be as a result of standing for too long. However, swollen legs may also indicate that you have a more severe problem. If your legs start swelling for no reason, then you need to take it seriously. Swollen legs may be an indicator of kidney problems or venous insufficiency. If your kidney is not functioning as it should, it may cause edema.
2. Pain
Doctors recommend that if you experience any pain, you should take it seriously. A lot of the times people buy over-the-counter painkillers and move on. However, pain in your legs can be a signal of severe health issues. Pain may be a sign of kidney problem, cardiac insufficiency, thrombosis, and atherosclerosis.
3. Numbness
Alcoholics may encounter this problem at some point in their lives. Non-alcoholics can also experience this issue depending on the blood circulation in their body. Diabetes, arthritis, and peripheral artery disease (PAD) may cause leg numbness.
4. Leg Discoloration
Leg discoloration may be a sign that you have skin cancer. Many doctors consider the feet a common indicator of skin cancer. Apart from cancer, this pigmentation may be a sign of Venous Insufficiency.
5. Itching
Itchiness is a leg health problem that can be frustrating. Athlete’s foot may cause the itchiness to your feet. According to doctors, many of the people in their 70s suffer from fungal toenails. This condition might be contagious if not treated.
6. Muscle Weakness
Illnesses such as atherosclerosis may rob the legs of enough blood. As a result, the leg muscles may end up being weak. The thyroid gland may also cause muscle weakness.
7. Change in Gait
Everybody has a particular walking style that makes them who they are. However, if you realize your gait is changing, consult your doctor. Change in walking style may be as a result of neurological issues.
8. Cold Feet
If blood is not flowing sufficiently in your legs, you are likely to experience cold feet. The thyroid gland may cause this issue.
9. Wounds that Won’t Heal
Our bodies are supposed to heal naturally due to cell regeneration. But finding yourself with a leg wound that refuses to heal may be severe. A lot of the time, people suffering from diabetes experience this problem.
Conclusion
Even though not all leg health problems are severe, it is essential to be careful. Pregnant women may also encounter leg health issues which may be temporary. Older women and men are more prone to these problems. Therefore, it is advisable to evaluate yourself and if you have any of the symptoms above, consult your doctor
