What Causes Peripheral Artery Disease?

Risk Factors for Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a vascular disease caused by atherosclerosis—which is the narrowing of the body’s arteries caused by fatty plaque buildup along the arterial walls. Ultimately, this inhibits your body’s ability to circulate oxygenated blood and nutrients to various parts of the body but mostly affects the legs and feet.

With over 6.5 million Americans over the age of 40 already living with PAD, it is increasingly important for people to know what factors can lead to the development of this cardiovascular disease. In light of National Peripheral Artery Disease Awareness Month, the health experts at Parrish Healthcare are here to share what factors can increase their risk.

Smoking Cigarettes & Using Tobacco Products

Smoking and using tobacco products leaves people three times more likely than nonsmokers to develop PAD. It is recommended that you either quit smoking or never start in the first place.

Type 2 Diabetes

When type 2 diabetes is not properly addressed, it can also increase your risk of developing PAD amongst other cardiovascular diseases. Managing this chronic health condition is essential when it comes to warding off PAD.

High Cholesterol

When you have too much cholesterol in your body, it can increase the fatty buildup in your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. To effectively prevent high cholesterol, eating a diet low in LDL and high in HDL foods is important.

When PAD is caught early on, it can be managed effectively and can prevent serious health complications. If you think you may have PAD or you have several of the factors that increase your risk of developing it, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider.

Cardiovascular Care in Titusville

When it comes to supporting your cardiovascular health, your Parrish Healthcare Cardiovascular team are experts in the art of healing your heart, lungs, and veins.

If you have heart-related health concerns, take our HeartAware Health Risk Assessment. It takes just a few minutes to receive your personalized and confidential information.