Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when you develop cholesterol buildups in the artery wall that enlarges to restrict blood flow. The disease is better diagnosed early since symptoms do not show until the blood flow is blocked, posing the threat of lower limb amputation. Fortunately, you can always get PAD screening and consult your St. Louis peripheral artery disease specialist on detecting the condition early and what you can do to avoid developing the condition. Confident lifestyle choices can help you minimize your chances of getting the conditions outlined herein.

Understand Your Risks

Leg pain and other leg symptoms are joint with aging. However, aging is not the only risk factor for PAD, and anyone can develop the condition. Therefore, you must evaluate your risks and take the necessary steps to reduce them. Having a family history of heart disease, stroke, or PAD increases your chances of developing the condition. Also, being over 50 with a history of diabetes and smoking or having high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity increases your chances of developing PAD. If you assess your risks, consult your doctor on the necessary steps you can take to lessen them.

Manage Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels

PAD develops due to cholesterol buildup, and having high cholesterol levels could only be bad news. Also, high blood pressure can harm your blood vessels interfering with blood flow to your limbs. This will increase the chances of developing PAD and heart disease, and stroke. It will also increase your chances of developing open sores on your feet, toes, or legs, promoting the need for amputation. Your doctor will help you reduce your cholesterol and blood pressure to minimize your chances of getting these complications.

Eating Healthy

Plaque build ups in your arteries are the primary reasons for PAD and could be due to poor diet habits. When your doctor identifies that your dietary choices are poor, they will advise you to make better choices to maintain your vascular system at the best peak condition. Follow a heart-healthy diet ensuring that you keep off saturated fats. It comes with added advantages of controlling your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and keeping your weight in check. Remember that obesity might increase your chances for PAD, and the more you maintain a healthy weight, the better.

Exercise Regularly

Exercises will do you much in avoiding PAD. It will help manage your weight, and some exercises are healthy for your heart and improve circulation all over your body. Engaging in physical activities is one of the best ways to maintain your vascular health at optimal. It allows your muscles to stay in good shape to process oxygen efficiently. Generally, ensure you include a 30–45-minute exercise regime in your weekly schedule several times.

No Smoking

You are at a higher risk of developing PAD than a nonsmoker if you are a smoker. Suppose you can quit smoking, the better. Remember that smoking is generally detrimental to your overall health and a significant risk factor for several health complications. Smoking is so bad that it not only maximizes your chances of developing PAD but also can reduce the effectiveness of your treatment and worsen your symptoms. So, you better quit.

Peripheral artery disease is avoidable. You can learn your risk factors for the condition and understand how to reduce them by talking to your PAD specialist at Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy. You can also book an online appointment to learn your treatment options if you are enduring the condition.