Are you suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD)? If so, you’re not alone.
Many people in the US live with PAD. It makes it the sixth leading cause of death among adults. While a PAD diagnosis isn’t likely to end up as fatal, it can end up as detrimental to your well-being.
It can lead to clogs, reduced blood flow, and increased heart attack or stroke risk. Given the severity of PAD, you need treatment now.
Be sure to learn more about the Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment options available when living with it. It will help you make smart, informed decisions. Read along to learn more!
Healthy Lifestyle
Healthy meals, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products, can help maintain good blood circulation. Exercise is vital for keeping the heart healthy and maintaining good circulation. Walk for 30 minutes a day and try to stay at the same intensity for the duration.
If PAD interferes with exercise ability, talk to your doctor about which activities are suitable. Avoid smoking, as it can worsen peripheral artery disease symptoms. And, when it comes to your cholesterol levels, work with your doctor to keep them in check.
Finally, talk to your doctor about lifestyle measures that can help reduce your risk, such as quitting smoking or being physically active. Adopting lifestyle changes is an essential step in managing the symptoms of PAD.
Exercise Daily
First, focus on low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week, and mix up your workouts to avoid boredom. Make sure to warm up for five to 10 minutes before exercising and to stretch afterward.
Use arm cranks, handheld weights, and resistance bands if your legs or hips are affected. For added benefit, add interval training to your routine, alternating between one minute of vigorous exercise with one minute of rest. Make sure to listen to your body.
If you’re tired or your legs hurt, take a break and rest. With a consistent regular exercise routine, you’ll experience the benefits of improved circulation and better health.
Take Medications
The most common medications to treat PAD include anticoagulants, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and medicines for high blood pressure and foot ulcer. Some people take aspirin to prevent further buildup of plaque in the arteries. Make sure to take all medications as prescribed to maximize the treatment and to avoid over-medicating or experiencing side effects.
Some medications maybe once a day or divided throughout the day. Be sure to read the labeling on the packaging to get the correct dosage and ensure none of the medications interfere with each other. Taking medicines is essential and easy as long as you follow the doctor’s orders and consult them as needed.
Follow Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment Today
The treatment options for PAD vary. While medications, lifestyle changes, and exercise are all recommended as part of Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment, specific procedures and surgery may be necessary. If you are living with PAD, talk to your doctor to learn more about treatment options and find the best path of care to get better.
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