Understand How High Cholesterol Is Correlated with PAD

Cholesterol is a fatty or waxy substance that is vital for your health. Cholesterol is of two types - LDL (low-density lipoprotein) also called "bad" cholesterol and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) also called "good" cholesterol. High cholesterol causes a build-up of plaque in the arteries and develops the risk of atherosclerosis which eventually narrows the arteries and reduces the blood flow. This plaque buildup is commonly known to cause strokes and heart attacks. When it affects the arteries of the legs and feet, it develops the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD).

According to research, approximately 6.5 million people ages 40 and older in the United States have PAD. This condition affects both men and women and can happen in any blood vessel of the body, but it is more common in the legs than the arms. Since this condition is so common in the US, let us get into the details of high cholesterol and peripheral vascular disease.

Symptoms of PAD

The most common symptoms of PAD include:

• Leg pain during physical activities like walking, running, exercising, etc.
• Changes in skin and hair
• Cold feet than other body parts
• Weak or missing pulses
• Sore legs
• Muscle pain while the body is at rest
• Gangrene or tissue death of the leg

Now that we are aware of the symptoms of PAD, let’s discuss the risk factor that leads to this condition.

High-Risk Factors That Lead to the Development of PAD

High cholesterol and PAD are correlated. Both conditions can occur simultaneously. Below are the most common risk factors:

• High Blood Pressure

  Constant high blood pressure causes micro-tears in the inner walls of the arteries. With the plague build-up, these arteries become narrow and weak. Hence it becomes a risk factor for developing PAD.

• Diabetes

  Excessive sugar levels in diabetes cause inflammation in the vascular system resulting in damage to the arteries. This increases the risk of PAD.

• Smoking

  The toxins in cigarettes cause damage to the lining of arteries. It also causes inflammation and eventually develops the risk of PAD.

Measures to Prevent PAD with High Cholesterol

If you are at a high risk of developing cholesterol and PAD, you can follow these effective measures that will help you in preventing high cholesterol and peripheral vascular disease.

• Quit smoking
• Regular exercise for pad
• Shred excessive body weight
• Avoid consuming alcohol
• Eat healthy food

Final Thoughts

High cholesterol and PAD are interconnected and can cause serious issues if not kept in check. However, understanding the symptoms and risk factors and taking the right precautions can help you prevent them. Furthermore, you must consult a professional specialist to get the right treatment at the right time if you experience severe symptoms.

When Is the Right Time to Visit a Doctor?

If you have diabetes or high blood pressure or if you are a chain smoker and you notice the previously mentioned symptoms, then you should schedule an appointment with the best vascular disease clinic or doctor near you as soon as possible.

Consult Professionals at NVAC for the Best PAD Treatment Today!

At North Atlanta Vascular Clinic, we will evaluate your condition and provide you with the most suitable pad treatment in Suwanee, GA. Our Vascular Clinic uses state-of-the-art ultrasound imaging and testing equipment. These tests allow early detection and treatment. Visit any of our four convenient locations in Suwanee, Cumming, Alpharetta, and Lawrenceville, or schedule an appointment today to avail the best treatment in Atlanta, Georgia.