Peripheral artery disease, also known as PAD, affects millions of patients in the United States. However, because PAD is a lesser-known vascular condition, you may not be familiar with PAD risk factors. Read on to learn everything you need to know about controlling your risk of developing PAD.
What Is PAD?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when the blood vessels that carry blood away from your heart, known as arteries, become narrowed. A narrowed peripheral artery cannot deliver blood as efficiently as a healthy artery. This means that the sites farthest away from the heart, such as the extremities (particularly the lower legs and feet), become relatively deprived of oxygen and nutrients. Patients with PAD can develop symptoms of pain, numbness, early fatigue, and decreased wound healing in these areas.
Who Is at Risk of PAD?
Becoming familiar with peripheral artery disease risk factors can help reduce your risk of ever developing this condition.
According to the American Heart Association, people are more likely to develop PAD if they:
- Are of an older age
- Smoke cigarettes
- Have diabetes
- Have high blood pressure
- Have heart disease
- Have high cholesterol
- Have chronic kidney disease
- Have a sedentary lifestyle
How To Reduce Your Risk of PAD
The great news about PAD is that you can lower your risk of developing the condition by adopting habits that benefit both your blood vessels and your heart. This includes following a diet high in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats. Getting the weekly amount of recommended exercise and avoiding sedentary periods can also greatly reduce your risk. If you smoke, make sure to discuss this with your medical provider so you can get help quitting.
Getting Tested if You’re at Risk of PAD
If you’re at risk of PAD, it’s important to get screened. Early detection of PAD can help you avoid the negative consequences associated with this condition, such as amputation. Peripheral artery disease can be diagnosed using a number of different non-invasive methods.
Treatment and Management of PAD
If you are diagnosed with PAD, your condition can be managed with a number of lifestyle changes, such as dietary modification, exercise, and smoking cessation. Medications and procedures can also help reduce or reverse the narrowing of the arteries and improve your symptoms.
At The Center for Vascular Care at Hunterdon Cardiovascular Associates (HCA), our team provides the resources you need to take control of your heart and vessel health. Contact us to make an appointment to get screened by one of our peripheral artery disease specialists today.