How to Reduce Your Risk of Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral arterial disease, also known as PAD, is a circulatory disorder that narrows blood vessels, usually in the legs. According to the American Heart Association Journal, over 12 million Americans have PAD. Much like heart disease, PAD takes years to develop and is usually caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries. Many people with PAD have mild or no symptoms early in the disease. When they do develop, some of the symptoms include leg pain when walking, coldness in the lower leg or foot, leg numbness or weakness, weak pulse in the legs or feet, shiny skin on the legs, and sores on the lower extremities that won’t heal.
How to Prevent or Improve PAD
If you already have PAD, you can reduce symptoms and prevent progression of the disease through healthy lifestyle changes. If you don’t have PAD, these same lifestyle changes will help reduce your risk of developing it.
Quit smoking – Smoking is a major risk factor for PAD, heart attack and stroke. If you smoke, taking steps to quit can help slow the progression of PAD.
Stay active – Regular exercise has many health benefits. Even regular walking can help. You can alternate periods of activity and rest to build up the amount of time you’re able to walk without pain.
Eat well – Elevated cholesterol can impact PAD, so choosing a diet low in saturated and trans fat can help lower cholesterol levels. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, such as olive oil. Limit sodium, saturated fat and added sugars.
Manage diabetes – Type 2 diabetes increases the risks of poor outcomes for people with PAD. Work with your doctor to get your blood sugar levels under control, which will help you maintain or improve your limb health.
Follow your doctor’s advice – Whether your doctor prescribes medications for certain health conditions or recommends particular procedures, follow your doctor’s advice. For people who have PAD, procedures such as angioplasty, stent placement, atherectomy or bypass surgery can be life-saving.
Sometimes, peripheral arterial disease treatment is required if symptoms can’t be managed with lifestyle changes alone.If you or a loved one is managing peripheral arterial disease, we can help. Learn more about our treatment options here.
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001153#d3240517e1