Remember, PAD is a lifelong disease. In that sense, caring for your limbs never ends. So the key is managing it, rather than thinking it will go away. The basic rule is: keep your limbs healthy by making good lifestyle choices, following your doctor’s advice, and taking your prescribed medications. Not only will you have healthier limbs and reduce your risk for further disease, you’ll likely feel better.
Examine your feet.
One of the most important things you can do on your own is daily foot checks. It takes just a few minutes, but can prevent minor foot problems from advancing into serious health concerns.
Caring for your feet.
People with PAD, especially in combination with diabetes, are more likely to have foot problems. Both PAD and diabetes tend to reduce blood flow to your legs and feet, so even minor cuts, sores and blisters cannot heal quickly or at all. Dry or cracked skin may give bacteria a chance to enter and cause infection. You can reduce these risks by following these simple steps:
Do not walk barefoot.
Inspect your feet every day for puncture wounds, bruises, scratches and cuts. If healing is slow, if a sore develops, or if pain increases, please seek the advice of a physician.
Keep your feet clean by washing with mild soap and warm water.
Keep your feet soft and moist by using lotion.
Trim your toe nails straight across and avoid cutting the corners.
Keep your feet warm.
Increase cardiovascular exercise.
Unlike workouts that build muscles, you can think of cardiovascular exercise as a workout for your heart and blood vessels. This is a very important lifestyle factor in preventing PAD. Even just a brisk walk each day can make a real difference. Ask your doctor or healthcare provider what kind of exercise is appropriate for you.
Improve your diet.
A healthy diet can help prevent plaque buildup and reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels:
Eat less saturated fat. Look for butter or margarine alternatives such as canola, olive or vegetable oil.
Eat more healthy fruits and vegetables. Five servings of fruits and vegetables a day will help you get the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber you need.
Stick to whole grains. Eat at least 3 servings of whole grains daily and look for whole grain alternatives for your favorite breads, pastas and tortillas.
Use less salt especially if you have high blood pressure.
Make wise choices about carbohydrates if you have diabetes.
Limit fatty cuts of red meat, full-fat dairy items, and processed (junk) foods.
Drink water. It’s good for you in every way.
Control your weight.
Maintaining a healthy weight can help lower your cholesterol and prevent PAD.
Stay active. Walk more and sit less.
Eat reasonable portions. Avoid going back for seconds.
Cut down on high-calorie, high-sugar and high-fat foods.
Quit smoking.
No ifs, ands or butts. This is the #1 risk factor for PAD and makes you up to 25 times more likely to develop the disease1.
The above recommendations have been associated with a healthy lifestyle. Always consult your doctor regarding the management of your diet, exercise, and weight.
Unfortunately, PAD cannot be cured. Medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle can help improve blood flow and help keep the disease from getting worse. Taking action against PAD and CLI while these conditions are still manageable may help reduce leg pain and the risk of serious complications, including the risk of amputation, heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. That’s great news for you and your loved ones.
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These three words have the power to change lives. Between 8 to 10 million Americans are estimated to suffer from poor blood flow to the arms, legs and feet potentially leading to vascular disease, amputation or worse. Are you, or someone you know, suffering from Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)? Do you have pain in your legs when you walk at night, or even when resting? Do not ignore it. These warning signs are real and it’s time to get real help. Welcome to the LOVE YOUR LIMBS™ Campaign, by Bard Peripheral Vascular.
