Enas Al-Banna
Tuesday, March 14, 2023 10:00 PM
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that flows through the bloodstream and is necessary for many activities in the body. High levels of cholesterol can have a negative impact on the health of our legs and feet. cholesterol It narrows the arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood to the lower extremities. This condition is called peripheral artery disease.
According to webmd, atherosclerosis, or the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, is a prominent cause of peripheral arterial disease.
What is peripheral artery disease?
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a condition in which plaque deposits narrow the arteries in the legs, restricting blood flow. This can lead to leg and foot pain during physical activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, peripheral artery disease can increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the following are risk factors for peripheral arterial disease:
smoking
high blood pressure
Arteriosclerosis
diabetic
High in fat
The CDC states that PAD is more common in people over 60 years of age.
Other risk factors include being overweight, a family history of cardiovascular disease, and having an inactive lifestyle.
Symptoms of peripheral artery disease
According to the American Heart Association, if you have PAD, you may experience painful muscle spasms in your hips, thighs or calves while walking, climbing stairs or playing sports.
PAD can have a variety of effects on your skin. A report published by the National Center for Biotechnology states that some people with PAD may spot leg discoloration.
The CDC suggests lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. The health care professional may also prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications and medications to control blood pressure. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to open blocked arteries.
If you have high cholesterol, it is essential to lower cholesterol levels and protect the health of your legs and feet. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress levels can help reduce cholesterol levels.
Your doctor may recommend medications to help lower your cholesterol levels. If you are experiencing any leg or foot pain, it is important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
