No More Leg Cramps: Outsmart Peripheral Artery Disease

Is there a traffic jam in your legs due to peripheral artery disease? It means there is poor circulation due to clogged arteries slowing down blood flow, making it tough for oxygen to reach your muscles. This can cause pain, especially when walking. Peripheral arterial disease is a critical circulatory disorder that is a sign of extensive atherosclerosis. It may also affect coronary and brain circulations and lower the quality of life. According to a recent study, the prevalence of peripheral artery disease in adults over 25 is 5·56% worldwide, and India has a higher prevalence, ranging from 7.6% to 26.7%. It is commonly caused by smoking, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, and/or type 2 diabetes.

Peripheral artery disease is when the arteries, primarily in the legs, become narrowed or blocked. This narrowing, often caused by atherosclerosis, reduces blood flow to the limbs. 

Atherosclerosis is caused by the build-up of plaque, which is made up of calcium, fibrin, fatty substances, cholesterol, and waste products from cells. Deposits of plaque accumulate along the arterial walls, narrowing the tunnel of the vessel and reducing blood flow. This can result in ischaemia, a disease in which tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients. Once these changes in your arteries occur,  you start observing some symptoms of peripheral artery disease.

Here are the common symptoms of peripheral artery disease:   

• Intermittent claudication: This is the most common symptom, which is defined by fatigue, cramping, or soreness in the thighs, calves, or legs when walking or exercising. Usually, the pain goes away as you relax.  
• Poor wound healing: The healing time for cuts and sores on the legs and feet may be prolonged or may never heal.  
• Coldness in the legs: Even in warm temperatures, people may feel cold in their legs.  
• Changes in skin colour: The skin on the legs and feet may become pale or bluish, especially when elevated.  
• Hair loss: Hair loss on the legs and feet can indicate peripheral artery disease  
• Weak pulse: A faint or missing pulse in the feet or ankles may indicate peripheral artery disease
• Numbness or weakness: Loss of sensation ir strength in the legs may occur.  

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to reach out to a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

A multitude of factors lead to peripheral artery disease. Smoking and a sedentary lifestyle play significant roles. A poor diet which has high saturated and trans fats may raise cholesterol levels and further contribute to plaque buildup. 

Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and kidney disease may also increase the risk. Additionally, age, family history, and race are factors to consider. By knowing your risk factors and choosing a healthy lifestyle, you can minimise the probability of peripheral artery disease and improve your overall cardiovascular health.

Peripheral artery disease is often categorised into stages depending on how severe the symptoms are and the extent of blood flow restriction:  

There are no symptoms at this time, not even when exercising. It is typically discovered during regular examinations or other medical examinations.

There are two phases to this. During activity, "Stage IIa" is characterised by minor claudication, soreness, or discomfort in the legs, usually the calves. The second stage of claudication, known as "Stage IIb," is moderate to severe. Walking short distances causes pain with little effort.  

Even when at rest there is pain in the affected limb, which usually worsens at night. A leg elevation may help reduce pain.  

At this point, a serious obstruction of blood flow damages tissue, which can lead to ulcers or gangrene. In extreme situations, an amputation may be required.

Peripheral artery disease can lead to several serious complications if left untreated:  

• Critical limb ischemia (CLI): This condition occurs when blood supply to the limbs, especially the legs, is severely reduced. It can cause intense pain, even at rest, and may lead to tissue death and gangrene.  
• Amputation: In severe cases of CLI, amputation may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and tissue death.  
• Heart attack and stroke: Peripheral artery disease is often associated with atherosclerosis. This can increase the probability of getting a heart attack and stroke.  
• Poor wound healing: Reduced blood flow can impair the body's ability to heal wounds, leading to chronic ulcers and infections.
• Erectile dysfunction: In men, peripheral artery disease can affect blood flow to the penis, leading to erectile dysfunction.  

It's important to manage peripheral artery disease effectively to reduce the risk of these complications. Lifestyle modifications, medications, and in some cases, surgical interventions can help improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms.

Do you want to keep your legs feeling strong and healthy? Peripheral artery disease can slow you down, but you can take control. From diet and exercise to managing underlying health conditions, let's explore the steps you can take to reduce your risk of peripheral artery disease.

• Quit smoking

Smoking is the single most significant risk factor for peripheral artery disease. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of developing the condition and slow its progression.  

• Adopt a healthy diet

A healthy diet includes a low-fat diet by reducing intake of saturated and trans fats. Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables which are rich in antioxidants and fibre. Also, a healthy diet includes the consumption of whole grains and lean protein 

• Regular exercise

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Walking, swimming, and cycling are excellent choices.  

• Manage underlying health conditions

Control your blood sugar levels. Keep an eye on and control your blood pressure. Cholesterol levels should also be maintained within a healthy range.  

• Regular check-ups

Annual physical exams can help to identify early signs of peripheral artery disease. People with diabetes should have regular foot exams.

Peripheral artery disease is a serious health condition that can have a profound effect on your quality of life. However, by being aware of the symptoms, identifying the risk factors, and actively managing the disease, you can reduce your risk and enhance your overall health. Early detection and treatment are vital in preventing complications. If you experience symptoms like leg pain, slow-healing wounds, or cold feet, it's important to seek medical advice. Making positive lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active, can help lower the risk of developing peripheral artery disease and improve heart health.

Peripheral artery disease narrows the arteries in the legs, which reduces blood flow. This condition can lead to symptoms such as leg pain, slow-healing wounds, and cold feet. It is often associated with risk factors like smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing serious complications.

While peripheral artery disease cannot be completely reversed, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise can slow its progression.

The long-term outlook for individuals with peripheral artery disease varies based on how severe the condition is and how effectively it is managed. By making lifestyle changes, following prescribed medications, and receiving appropriate treatments, many people with peripheral artery disease can lead a good life and minimise the risk of complications.

Lifestyle changes can greatly alleviate symptoms of peripheral artery disease. Stop smoking, adopt a heart-healthy diet, and engage in regular exercise to enhance blood circulation. It's also essential to control conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.