According to Dr. KN Nagabhushan - senior consultant in vascular and endovascular surgery, Fortis Hospital (Bengaluru, India), peripheral artery disease (PAD) can be an early sign of cardiovascular problems.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition of atherosclerosis in the limbs, especially in the lower limbs. In simple terms, when plaques of fat, cholesterol, fibrous tissue or calcium accumulate in the arteries that carry blood to the brain and other parts of the body, it will cause local blood loss. Because over time, these substances will harden, narrowing the arteries, limiting blood flow to other organs.
Factors that contribute to peripheral artery disease (PAD)
According to Dr. KN Nagabhushan, diabetes is one of the major risk factors and high cholesterol levels contribute significantly to the development of PAD. High cholesterol promotes plaque formation in the arteries, which narrow and harden over time. This process reduces blood flow and increases the risk of blockage, making high cholesterol a major risk factor for PAD.
Other factors that may contribute to its development include:
- Smoke
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
Additionally, some people are at higher risk of developing PAD, including:
- Older people
- People with a family history of heart disease
- People with sedentary lifestyles
- People with unhealthy habits, such as poor diet or lack of exercise
How does PAD affect your feet?
PAD affects blood circulation by restricting blood flow to the legs and feet, says Dr. Nagabhushan.
As the arteries become narrower, patients may experience symptoms such as pain during physical activity, known as claudication. In severe cases, inadequate blood supply can lead to ulcers or gangrene, which emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment.
How to control and reduce the risk of PAD?
Lifestyle modifications can play an important role in preventing or controlling the progression of PAD, says Dr. Nagabhushan.
Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to improve blood flow and overall vascular health, he said. In addition, regular exercise and a healthy diet low in saturated fat but rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help control cholesterol levels.
