High sugar, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are often dubbed as silent killers, posing significant risks to human health. High cholesterol, particularly, is recognised as a major contributor to heart disease, with warning signs including chest pain, dizziness and slurred speech. Cholesterol exists in two forms: good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL), both produced by the body and acquired through diet. LDL cholesterol, deemed harmful, can lead to arterial blockages when elevated, hampering blood flow and increasing the risk of heart-related complications.
Recent findings indicate that a specific symptom observed during exercise, particularly in the legs, could serve as an early indicator of high cholesterol levels. Arteries in the legs, like elsewhere in the body, can become clogged with fat due to excess cholesterol, leading to a condition known as Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).
Dr Aditya S. Chowti, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bangalore, highlighted that leg pain during physical activity is a common symptom of PAD, accompanied by noticeable physical changes such as alterations in nails and skin texture. Claudication, characterised by narrowed blood vessels in the legs, is a prevalent sign of PAD.
According to the American Heart Association, individuals with high cholesterol face an increased risk of developing PAD, resulting in pain in the lower back, thighs and calves, particularly during activities like exercise, prolonged walking and climbing stairs. Common symptoms indicating PAD risk from high cholesterol include leg pain, swelling, numbness, non-healing wounds, weakness, leg discolouration, hair loss, brittle nails and hand pain or cramps.
Regular medical check-ups are crucial for early detection of high cholesterol risks, emphasising the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity to prevent cholesterol accumulation. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary adjustments and consistent exercise routines, play a pivotal role in managing cholesterol levels and reducing the likelihood of PAD and associated complications.
Heightened awareness of the relationship between high cholesterol and PAD symptoms underscores the significance of proactive health management and preventive measures in safeguarding cardiovascular well-being.
Comments
0 comment