Pain or cramps in the legs during physical activity may indicate an early sign of a condition called peripheral artery disease. Therefore, in the presence of seizures and various pains should be examined by a doctor. Details were told by British doctors and, in particular, vascular surgeon Matthew Sindrick.
The disease occurs as a plaque develops in the arteries of the extremities, which restricts blood flow to the legs, sometimes to the hands. This condition is more common in the elderly and affects up to 10% of people aged 60-70 years.
In the most severe cases, the disease can lead to amputation, although it does not cause symptoms in the early stages.
Symptoms
The first and most common symptom that people notice is pain, cramps, or heaviness in one or both legs while walking or exercising. These symptoms are due to the fact that the muscles can not get enough oxygen and nutrients.
As peripheral artery disease progresses, symptoms usually become more severe and may include:
- wounds and ulcers on the legs that do not heal
- constant pain or numbness.
Anyone can be a harbinger of the onset of gangrene.
“Vascular problems usually worsen quickly without prompt diagnosis and intervention, especially in patients with leg wounds that do not heal,” the doctor warned. “The sooner you notice the symptoms and get an assessment, the sooner we can guide you on the path to treatment.”
Genetics and treatment
Treatment may include changes in diet, exercise, medication, or procedures to open blocked arteries.
Genetics play a role in this disease, but the other 4 of the 5 main risk factors are controllable, namely:
- smoking
- high blood pressure
- high blood cholesterol
- high blood sugar or diabetes.
“Smoking is the undisputed leader. Peripheral artery disease is much more common in smokers than in non-smokers, ”said the doctor.
Doctor’s advice
According to the vascular surgeon, you should start by quitting smoking, forming a structured exercise habit and working with your doctor to manage these risk factors. “Even if you end up needing surgery, long-term results depend heavily on how well these other factors are managed,” he said.
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* This content, including tips, contains only general information. This in no way replaces a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or doctor for more information. We wish you good health, your DIP.