Understanding Your Role as a Primary Caregiver
For many women, caring for aging parents or partners is not just an act of love—it’s a full-time responsibility. As the backbone of countless households, women often serve as the primary decision-makers when it comes to healthcare for their families. If someone you love has been experiencing throbbing leg pain at night, struggles to walk long distances, or has wounds that won’t heal, this may be more than aging or tiredness—it could be a warning sign of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).
PAD is a serious condition that impacts blood flow to the legs, and it can lead to severe disability or limb loss if left untreated. This article is designed to help women caregivers understand how to recognize PAD, why it’s especially dangerous when symptoms are dismissed, and how early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.
What is PAD—and Why Should You Be Concerned?
PAD is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries that carry blood to the limbs. Over time, this buildup narrows or blocks blood flow, depriving the legs and feet of oxygen-rich blood. The result? Pain, numbness, and poor healing—especially noticeable at night when circulation slows.
As a caregiver, you may be the first to notice these symptoms in your partner, parent, or loved one:
- Complaints of leg pain at night, especially in the feet or calves
- Needing to dangle their legs off the bed for relief
- Difficulty walking long distances due to pain or fatigue
- Sores or wounds on feet or legs that won’t heal
- Cold, discolored, or numb feet
Why Nocturnal Leg Pain Is a Red Flag
Leg pain that disrupts sleep is often one of the earliest signs of severe PAD. This pain happens because the legs aren’t getting enough blood while the person is lying down. Many caregivers mistake this for arthritis or poor circulation from diabetes, but ignoring this symptom can lead to critical limb ischemia, a dangerous condition that can result in amputation if not treated promptly.
Why PAD Disproportionately Affects the Ones You Care For
If your loved one has any of the following risk factors, their chances of having PAD are significantly higher:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking history
- Chronic kidney disease
- Age 60+
Many of these conditions are common in aging men and parents, especially those with a history of cardiovascular disease. As a caregiver, being aware of these overlapping conditions is crucial.
How Women Caregivers Make a Difference in Outcomes
Research shows that patients with involved, informed caregivers are more likely to seek early care and follow through with treatment. As a woman making medical decisions for your family, your role is pivotal in catching PAD before it becomes limb- or life-threatening.
Steps you can take:
- Start the conversation – Ask about leg discomfort, cramping, or nighttime pain.
- Encourage screening – A simple test called an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) can detect PAD early.
- Seek expert care – Choose a specialist with extensive experience in PAD and limb salvage.
- Support follow-through – Ensure your loved one takes prescribed medications, attends follow-ups, and adopts lifestyle changes.
Why Choose South Bay Vascular and Dr. Polly Kokinos
Dr. Polly Kokinos at South Bay Vascular Center has over 30 years of experience treating patients with PAD. As one of the few independent vascular surgeons in Santa Clara County, she offers a level of personalized, patient-first care that many large systems simply cannot match. Her team works closely with caregivers to:
- Explain complex diagnoses in easy-to-understand language
- Involve families in every step of the treatment process
- Provide compassionate care that respects cultural and emotional dynamics
Dr. Kokinos is especially known for her work in limb salvage and amputation prevention, helping families avoid devastating outcomes. With her background in both community-based practice and international mission work, she brings deep empathy and unmatched skill to every patient interaction.
Treatments That Can Help Your Loved One
The good news? PAD is treatable—especially when caught early. Treatment plans may include:
- Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, eating healthier, and walking
- Medication: To improve blood flow and control underlying conditions
- Minimally invasive procedures: Like angioplasty or stenting to open blocked arteries
- Surgical options: For advanced cases where blood flow must be rerouted
At South Bay Vascular, treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s specific needs, and you—as the caregiver—are never left out of the loop.
Conclusion: Your Leadership Saves Lives
As the primary caregiver, you are not just supporting a loved one—you are advocating for their future. By learning the signs of PAD, understanding its risks, and connecting with experts like Dr. Kokinos, you can help ensure your loved one receives the best care possible before the disease progresses.
Don’t ignore nighttime leg pain. If your partner, parent, or family member is struggling with any of the symptoms mentioned above, reach out today. If you or our loved ones suffers from any of the conditions outlined above, ask your primary care physicians for a referral to Dr Kokinos at South Bay Vascular Center or if you think you need a second opinion, please call our office at 408-376-3626 to schedule an appointment.
We offer hope when others say there is none
