Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory problem where plaque buildup in the arteries reduces the blood flow to the limbs, usually the legs. This reduced blood flow can cause pain, numbness, and even lead to serious complications like heart attacks, strokes, or limb amputation if not addressed promptly. The important focus is to encourage early detection and proactive management.
Symptoms
When blood flow is compromised due to narrowed arteries, the lack of circulation can result in the following symptoms:
- muscle pain or cramping in legs or arms
- leg numbness
- sores on toes, feet or legs that won’t heal
- decreased temperature in one leg compared to the other
- poor nail and hair growth on the toes and legs
Unfortunately, because some of these symptoms can be subtle, many people don’t realize they have PAD until it has progressed to a more dangerous stage.
Habits That Increase the Risk
- Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for PAD. The chemicals in tobacco damage the blood vessels and contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Smokers are at much higher risk of developing PAD, and the risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked and the duration of smoking. Quitting smoking is crucial in reducing this risk.
- Lack of physical activity contributes to the development of PAD. Regular exercise helps improve circulation, strengthens the heart, and keeps arteries flexible. A sedentary lifestyle, on the other hand, can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes—all of which are risk factors for PAD.
- A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and processed foods contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This type of diet can lead to high cholesterol levels, which is a significant risk factor for PAD. Eating a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce the risk of plaque buildup.
- Diabetes is a major risk factor for PAD, particularly if blood sugar levels are not well controlled. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and contribute to the formation of plaque. People with diabetes should manage their condition carefully to reduce the risk of developing PAD.
- Chronic high blood pressure can damage the arteries, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup. Managing blood pressure through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication is essential in reducing the risk of PAD.
- Excessive drinking can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to the development of PAD.
Prevention
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits not only reduces the risk of PAD, but also improve overall cardiovascular health, decreasing the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other related conditions.
Recognizing PAD early is important because it allows for lifestyle changes and treatments that can significantly improve outcomes. If you or someone you know experiences symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, or numbness, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.