Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a vascular condition that results from the accumulation of plaque inside the artery. The plaque buildup restricts blood flow to the limbs, especially the hands and arms. According to recent studies, the condition affects over 8 million citizens living in the United States. Untreated conditions could cause gangrene, stroke, amputation, or even death. Recognizing the risk factors is essential to prevent the disease. Consult Prime Heart and Vascular for treatment of peripheral artery disease in Frisco. Below are the main factors that could cause the condition.
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Age
Research shows that a large percentage of people diagnosed with peripheral artery disease are above the age of 50. Therefore, it is important to get screened if you are approaching or above 50 years because early diagnosis and treatment is easier than the severe stages. Screening is also non-invasive, so you should not fear anything.
African ethnicity
Being an African descendent could increase the risk of developing PAD than being from any other race. You must take preventive measures in advance such as a healthy diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes or get screened if you are an African-American approaching 50 years.
Smoking
Smoking has numerous negative health impacts, including lung cancer and other illnesses. Smoking also causes constriction of blood vessels, which could cause peripheral artery disease. Luckily, smoking is a lifestyle behavior that you can quit as early as possible to reduce the risks of illnesses.
Family history
You are likely to develop peripheral artery disease if a member of your family has also been diagnosed with the condition. Such families should adopt preventive measures very early in life and look for signs to begin treatment before the disease advances.
Obesity
Being overweight could increase the risks of developing heart conditions, including PAD. Therefore, you should make a point of reaching a standard weight to reduce the risks. Alternatively, you can speak to a doctor for advice on other preventive measures.
Existing health conditions
Patients with high blood pressure could also develop peripheral artery disease. High blood pressure puts too much force on your blood vessels’ walls, which causes damage with time. Eventually, you develop other heart conditions. You should consult a doctor for ways to manage your blood pressure if you want to reduce the risks of complications.
High cholesterol
Cholesterol is essential for the body to function correctly. However, a high level of bad cholesterol is not healthy for your body. Additionally, low levels of good cholesterol could increase the risks of heart diseases. Triglyceride, another fat in the blood, is another risk factor you should watch to prevent peripheral artery disease.
You should seek treatment immediately if you suspect that you have peripheral artery disease. Understanding the risk factors is also essential to screening early before the condition progresses to its late stages. However, a diagnosis should not scare you as there are numerous non-invasive treatments to cure PAD. Book an appointment today with Prime Heart and Vascular for a consultation and treatment.