A Better Understanding of Peripheral Vascular Disease

The heart is the engine of all the body parts. It is one way or the other connected to all the other body parts. If it does not work or function properly, then the rest of the body will be affected. One of the diseases that is somewhat related to the heart is peripheral vascular disease. This condition has become very prominent, especially to old aged people. Very little is known about it, and there is a need to shed more light concerning the condition. Different cardiologist in Riverside, CA offers more information concerning peripheral vascular disease. To learn more about this condition, here is what you should know.

What is peripheral vascular disease?

PAD, as it is abbreviated, is a condition that hardens or narrows the blood vessels found outside the heart and brain. The condition is more prominent in the arteries of the legs. This condition should be well taken care of as it might lead to amputation if it is ignored.

What are the causes of peripheral vascular disease?

The leading cause of this condition is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition that makes the fat deposits store and builds up in the walls of the artery. The fats, in return, reduce the rate of blood flow. Other causes include the following:

•   Blood clots form in the arteries
•   Injuries, especially in the limbs
•   Muscles strains
•   Ligaments strains

Other conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure play a vital role in causing this disease. Some lifestyles such as smoking, taking food rich in cholesterol, and not exercising also play a role in causing this disease.

What are the common signs and symptoms of peripheral vascular disease?

Many people with this condition suffer blindly as the disease does not have visible signs and symptoms. However, research indicates that people who show the following signs and symptoms may suffer from this condition:

•   Legs get very weak
•   Feeling cold in the foot or the lower side of the leg
•   Some people may become numb in the legs
•   Some individuals lose hair on the feet and legs
•   Toenails also tend to grow at a slower rate
•   The skin in the foot appears shiny or sometimes blue

In some exceptional cases, men have or rather experience erectile dysfunctions. This is dangerous to their sexual life.

How is peripheral vascular disease treated?

Primarily, the treatment approaches for this condition aim to manage or eliminate the signs and symptoms. If the symptoms are controlled, atherosclerosis will be stopped from progressing. Severe complications such as heart attacks and strokes will be avoided entirely. Doctors also recommend their patients to take precautions such as:

•   Avoiding smoking
•   Exercising daily to cut off excessive weight
•   Avoid taking food with too much fat content
•   Taking prescribed medications that lower blood pressure levels, preventing blood clots, and controlling any kind of pain

In conclusion, peripheral vascular disease is hazardous to the overall health of an individual. You should take checkups frequently to know if you have the condition before it gets worse to prevent future health issues.