Keeping Me Well - Cardiff and Vale University Hospital

Diabetes and Poor Circulation

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) also known as poor circulation is a complication of poor blood glucose (sugar) control for your feet and legs.

High HbAlc (blood glucose) levels can cause damage to the blood vessels and reduce blood circulation in your legs and feet.

Foot circulation

A good blood supply is essential to help any cuts or grazes on your feet heal.  

Other risk factors that affect blood flow include: 

These risk factors are very important when you have diabetes. They can contribute to the damage of your blood vessels and make things like stroke, heart disease, kidney disease and toe and foot amputation more likely. 

You may not experience any symptoms with Peripheral Arterial Disease, which is why your annual Diabetic foot check includes the testing of your circulation. 

Keeping Me Well - Cardiff and Vale University Hospital

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