Prepare high cholesterol One of the most common risk factors for heart disease, it is associated with the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is necessary for the body to form healthy cells. However, when there is an excess of “bad” cholesterol or fatty deposits in the blood vessels, it clogs the arteries. It makes it difficult for blood to flow through the arteries. Moreover, when these plaques suddenly break, they form a clot that can cause a heart attack or stroke, and the color of your legs may indicate high cholesterol, according to the Times of India.
While high cholesterol is a genetic condition, it is often the result of unhealthy lifestyle choices including unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, excess body weight, and worse, increased cholesterol levels usually show no signs. or symptoms.
But experts believe that this disease can leave certain indications in the legs.
Pay close attention to your legs
According to experts, undiagnosed and untreated high cholesterol can lead to a condition called atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances in the artery walls. These fatty deposits or plaques can narrow the arteries, impeding or preventing smooth blood flow to various parts of the body, including the legs.
The plaque can also break off, causing blood clots to form, which can be harmful.
When blood flow to the legs is obstructed or blocked, it can lead to a condition called peripheral artery disease (PAD).
What is peripheral arterial disease?
Peripheral artery disease is a condition associated with narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup, resulting in reduced blood flow to the arms and legs..
A person with PAD does not get enough blood in the legs or arms (usually the legs), causing leg pain when walking.
If not treated in time, it can lead to acute limb ischemia and acute limb ischemia, an advanced form of peripheral arterial disease. (PAD) that affect blood flow to the extremities.
Watch out for the color of your legs
Since peripheral arterial disease is related to reduced blood flow to the legs, it can cause certain changes in leg color.
If not detected or treated in time, your leg can begin to turn pale or blue due to reduced or reduced blood flow to the legs.
In addition, you may also feel severe pain in your leg, especially when walking. This pain may subside with a few minutes of rest.
According to the Mayo Clinic, peripheral artery disease may present with symptoms including:
– Coldness, numbness and weakness in the lower leg or foot, especially when compared to the other side
– Weakness or lack of pulse in the legs or feet
– painful cramps in one or both of the hips, thighs, or calf muscles following certain activities, such as walking or climbing stairs
– Toenail growth slows
– Sores that don’t heal on the toes, feet, or legs
– Pain when using the arms, such as soreness and cramping when knitting, writing, or doing other manual tasks
– Hair loss or slowed hair growth on the legs
While peripheral arterial disease can be an indicator of high cholesterol levels in the body, just like the latter, it does not necessarily show any warning signs or symptoms..
However, it is best to get tested in order to detect high cholesterol, you can have a simple blood test known as a lipid profile or lipid panel. Your doctor will tell you whether or not to require fasting and the fasting period can extend from 8 to 12 hours before the blood is drawn.
Ways to lower cholesterol levels
A healthier lifestyle can do wonders for your overall health.
When it comes to lowering cholesterol levels, eating a nutritious, balanced diet and getting regular exercise can help you achieve this..
Furthermore, if you are already taking medications, you must be consistent and careful in taking them regularly, as directed by your doctor..
Most importantly, aim to achieve a healthy body weight, as obesity is a dominant risk factor for many diseases, including heart disease.
