Peripheral artery
disease (PAD), a common peripheral vascular disease (PVD), is characterized by hardening of the arteries in the extremities. It affects over 9 million Americans. Diabetes, age over 65, smoking, alcohol, lack of exercise, obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure are strong risk factors in succumbing to PAD.
Significance
Peripheral artery disease plays a significant role in the incidences of heart attacks,
strokes and loss of limbs.
Symptoms
Symptoms include cramping, coldness, numbness, tiredness and pain in the leg when walking or climbing stairs. The toenails may also change to a slightly brownish color.
Features
These symptoms are due to arteriosclerosis (fat deposits), also called plaque, in the arteries. This blocks adequate blood flow to the legs.
Warning
Early testing and diagnosis of PAD is extremely important to reduce the symptoms and stop the damage done by the disease.
Prevention/Solution
Practice healthy lifestyle changes to include healthy diet, exercise, no smoking, visits to the podiatrist and wearing proper footwear.
Tags: artery disease, Peripheral artery, Peripheral artery disease