Doctor says coldness and pain in the limbs may be sign of a serious condition
The cold winter weather is already here, and for some, that might mean the onset of a serious condition they are unaware of. One doctor is advising those who feel coldness and pain in their limbs to seek immediate medical attention, as the condition may be a sign of narrowed or restricted arteries. If you’re heading outdoors, remember to dress warm, and if you feel numbness or pain from the cold, check with a doctor as soon as possible.
Older adults enjoy exercising in the park, but may experience coldness in the limbs when doing so in the winter. Doctors warn that the feeling of cold feet may be an indication of a serious problem such as deep vein thrombosis, and that if you are unsure, you should consult with a physician.
Mr. Kuo
Patient
My ankle was swollen. It swelled by about 2 to 3 centimeters. I thought, “Oh, this must be some type of bone problem.” Who would have thought that it was due to thrombosis?
Mrs. Chang
Patient
At first there was nothing wrong with me, but then there was such unbearable pain that I rushed to the emergency room. They ran tests and found out that it was thrombosis.
Taichung residents Mr. Kuo, 80, and Mrs. Chang, 72, both have histories of high blood pressure. Recently they both experienced coldness and pain in their legs, but had no idea it was a serious medical condition known as peripheral arterial occlusive disease, which is a blockage or narrowing of an artery in the legs.
Hsu Chung-ho
Physician
If there’s sudden coldness and pain in the lower limbs, the face has become pale or purplish, regular activity is affected, and there’s no strong pulse, medical attention should be sought immediately.
The doctor said that the condition mainly affects people 45 and older, and that those with histories of atrial fibrillation should pay particularly close attention to warning signs.
Hsu Chung-ho
Physician
Some patients with atrial fibrillation are prescribed anticoagulants, but they may not always take their medication, which is often the cause of blood clots.
With colder weather setting in for the season, doctors advise those experiencing coldness and pain in their limbs to check with a doctor, especially for those with a history of heart conditions.
2022-12-14
