Arteriosclerosis of the lower extremities, medically known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD), is a common vascular disease that occurs in the arteries of the lower extremities, causing narrowing or occlusion of blood vessels, which affects blood flow to the lower extremities. This process is closely related to atherosclerosis and is part of systemic arteriosclerosis.
Intermittent claudication is a typical symptom of arteriosclerosis of the lower extremities, especially when the disease progresses to a certain extent. People experience pain, soreness, or weakness in their lower limbs after walking a certain distance, forcing them to stop and rest. This pain is usually relieved with rest, but as the disease progresses, the distance the patient walks gradually decreases, and pain may occur even at rest.
Intermittent claudication occurs because the narrowing of blood vessels due to arteriosclerosis restricts blood flow to the muscles, especially during activity, when the muscles need more oxygen and nutrients. When blood flow is insufficient to meet these needs, pain and other symptoms can be caused.
Q1: Why does arteriosclerosis of the lower extremities cause intermittent claudication? A1: Arteriosclerosis stiffens and narrows the walls of blood vessels, blocking blood flow. During activity, the muscles demand more blood, and the narrowed blood vessels are unable to provide enough blood, resulting in a lack of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, triggering pain.
Q2: How is intermittent claudication diagnosed? A2: Diagnosis is made by history, physical examination (e.g., measurement of ankle-brachial index ABI), and imaging tests (e.g., color Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, or digital subtraction angiography DSA).
Q3: How about intermittent claudication**? A3: *Includes lifestyle changes (e.g., smoking cessation, blood pressure and blood sugar control, healthy diet), medications** (e.g., antiplatelet drugs, lipid-lowering drugs), exercise**, and possible revascularization surgery (e.g., angioplasty or bypass grafting).
Precautions for intermittent claudication].
Avoid standing or walking for long periods of time and rest appropriately to reduce symptoms.
Engage in moderate aerobic exercise, such as walking, on a regular basis to enhance vascular health.
Take care of your feet to avoid injuries and infections.
Follow your doctor's instructions and have regular check-ups to monitor your condition.
Intermittent claudication of arteriosclerosis of the lower extremities is a symptom that cannot be ignored and suggests that we need to pay more attention to vascular health. Through timely diagnosis and **, the condition can be effectively controlled and the quality of life can be improved. Remember, healthy blood vessels are the foundation of an active life. Let us work together to safeguard this foundation.