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Shiny Skin: A Symptom of Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when the arteries in the legs become clogged, preventing blood from flowing to the lower extremities. An associated symptom of PAD is shiny skin on the legs or feet. A patient with PAD can suffer from shiny skin because of underlying circulation problems, which can indicate restricted blood flow. Clogged arteries in the legs restrict oxygen and nutrients from reaching the skin, causing it to look shiny. Patients should schedule an appointment with American Endovascular if they experience shiny skin on the legs or feet, as it could be a sign of PAD. Early diagnosis of PAD can prevent more severe complications and help improve circulation in the legs.
Symptoms of Shiny Skin
Symptoms of shiny skin can vary depending on the underlying cause. In patients with PAD, it’s important to notice any changes to the skin on your lower extremities since circulation is negatively impaired in the affected area. Because your legs and feet may retain blood due to a lack of circulation, it can lead to your legs appearing shinier or smoother. Symptoms of shiny skin on the legs or feet caused by PAD include:
- Skin that appears shiny, smooth, or translucent
- Inflammation of the skin
- Swollen or puffy skin
- Skin that appears stretched or tight
Causes of Shiny Skin
Shiny skin can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. If you are concerned about shiny skin, visiting your healthcare provider is the best next step to determining the cause and seeking the proper treatment. Here are some potential causes of shiny skin:
- Edema
- Oily skin
- Sweating or Hyperhidrosis
- Peripheral Artery Disease
Find out if you are at risk for Peripheral Artery Disease.
What Causes Shiny Skin on Legs?
Peripheral artery disease narrows or blocks the arteries that supply blood to the legs or feet. This restricted blood flow deprives the skin of an adequate oxygen and nutrient supply which can cause certain skin changes, including shininess. Shiny skin occurs due to compromised circulation and inadequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the skin cells. As a result, the skin may appear smooth, tight, glossy, or glassy on the legs. This shiny skin is a consequence of the underlying vascular insufficiency caused by PAD.
How to Treat Shiny Skin and Peripheral Artery Disease
The treatment of shiny skin associated with peripheral artery disease involves improving blood flow to the affected limb. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to manage PAD and its symptoms, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, or recommend lifestyle changes to help improve circulation, including regular exercise.
In more advanced stages of PAD, you may need a minimally invasive procedure to help restore blood flow back to your legs. We offer several minimally-invasive treatments for peripheral artery disease in NY, NJ, and OH that can help relieve symptoms, including shiny skin.
Amputation Prevention
More advanced stages of PAD may lead to amputation, such as Critical Limb Ischemia. Our vascular experts aim to prevent amputations and save limbs through minimally invasive procedures to help patients live longer lives.
Angioplasty
An angioplasty inserts a small catheter into the blocked artery. A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to open up the narrowed artery and improve blood flow.
Atherectomy
Atherectomy is a procedure in which a catheter with a rotating shaver or laser tip is used to remove or vaporize plaque buildup in the artery. It helps to restore blood flow by clearing the blockage.
Stent Placement
A stent acts as a scaffold and prevents the artery from collapsing or narrowing again. It helps keep the artery open and is generally used in combination with an angioplasty.
What to Expect from Your PAD Treatment
Schedule an Appointment at your nearest American Endovascular affiliated center.
Our Vascular Specialists
At American Endovascular, our affiliated vascular specialists in NY and NJ are innovators in the field of endovascular care. They are experts in treatments for peripheral artery disease and help you reduce PAD symptoms, including shiny skin.
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From the Experts
Learn more about vascular health, prevention, and care for Peripheral Artery Disease.
Schedule an Appointment at your nearest American Endovascular affiliated center.