Posted by Fatima Khalil
Sunday, March 26, 2023 10:00 PM
Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, however, elevated levels can lead to: cholesterol It can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and strokes, but high cholesterol does not often appear through symptoms. However, some warning signs may appear, indicating a buildup of cholesterol in the arteries, and one of these warning signs may hit your leg, indicating a disease. peripheral artery
What is peripheral artery disease?
High levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which is a mixture of fatty substances, cellular waste products, calcium, fibrin, and cholesterol.
This can lead to narrowed or blocked arteries. Once your arteries have too much of this irritating jumble, they can narrow or become blocked. When this happens, blood flow to different parts of your body can be restricted, especially to your legs and this can lead to peripheral artery disease.
This type of leg pain might be the first sign
According to the Cleveland Clinic, leg pain that stops within a few minutes of rest can be the “first symptom” that PAD is triggering. This is also known as intermittent claudication and can also lead to cramping or discomfort in your legs. Symptoms during physical activity such as walking and rest can help.
Why does this pain stop at rest?
When you walk, your muscle cells work harder and need more oxygen than your blood can deliver due to narrowed or blocked arteries due to high cholesterol. However, these cells do not require as much oxygen when you are resting, so you may not feel any pain or discomfort in your legs. Engaging in physical activity with poor blood flow to your legs can make your muscles dull, sore, or numb.
Other signs of peripheral arterial disease
Aside from leg pain or discomfort while walking, PAD can also cause burning or pain in your feet and toes while you lie flat, such as during the night.
The skin on your feet may also feel cold and you may notice redness or other changes in your skin color. You may also develop sores on your toes and feet that don’t heal.
How to lower high cholesterol levels
Lifestyle changes can help lower your cholesterol levels.
Increase your intake of foods rich in soluble fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and oats. At the same time, limit your intake of foods rich in saturated fats – such as cheese, butter, sausage and crackers.
Besides dietary changes, quitting smoking and exercising can also help.
