Atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities is becoming a very common disease. According to statistics, more elderly people suffer from it.
If we consider the causes of this disease, then we can distinguish atherothrombosis. It is because of excess cholesterol that is deposited on the vascular wall, and problems arise. As a result, plaques appear; they, in turn, greatly complicate the work of arteries. Blockage and narrowing leads to the fact that the renewed blood almost does not enter the lower limbs, there is a lack of oxygen. In rare cases, when the disease is started and treatment is not performed, there is a risk of amputation of the limb. As it becomes clear, atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities is a rather dangerous disease.
There are a number of symptoms by which atherosclerosis of the arteries of the lower extremities can be recognized. Of course, the first bells will appear in the area of the legs. These include tiredness when walking, a person can no longer go the usual distance and have to take a break. To this condition, heaviness in the legs is added, just then a slight limp occurs. Wounds on the fingers or legs, numbness of the legs, sometimes severe and severe pain, will also accompany the patient. By the way, peeling and dry skin lead to open wounds. It is they that are a great danger to the patient, because through them an infection can enter the body.
If at least one of the symptoms is detected, then you should visit a medical institution and get the help of a vascular surgeon. Atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities can be treated and in the early stages, success can be achieved. Of course, a complete cure will not happen, but a state of persistent remission will allow for full-fledged life activities.
The causes of an unpleasant disease are many, for example, smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, a hereditary factor and diabetes. If at least one item is suitable for a person, then he is at risk. Do not neglect treatment and examination. After passing certain procedures, you can get a complete clinical picture. There are several types of research in the arsenal of physicians. Doppler ultrasound, X-ray angiography and MRI with the introduction of contrast. The latter type is the safest and does not require hospitalization, since the substance is injected into a vein.
If the patient is diagnosed with atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities, then a diet is prescribed to him. With atherosclerosis of the lower extremities, the patient has to limit his diet. The more human body weight, the stricter the diet. Animal fats, sugar, and bread almost disappear from the menu. Their place is given to beef, veal, turkey, as well as fish of low-fat varieties, such as pike perch, cod, perch. Low-fat cottage cheese, sour-milk drinks, peas, oatmeal and soybeans - all this can be safely eaten.
Vitamins should be included in the diet, especially in winter. By the way, there are exceptions, since vitamin D is contraindicated in atherosclerosis. Seafood is also welcome: shrimp, squid, mussels and trepangs will become a reliable defender of veins. Soups and salads will now only become vegetarian, occasionally a weak meat broth is allowed.
If the patient is overweight, fasting days are recommended. For example, kefir, cottage cheese, vegetable or fruit diets. During such days, excess fluid leaves the body, which helps to improve well-being.
Remember that timely treatment at the clinic and the right treatment will save the patient from dire consequences. Modern medicine has an expanded arsenal of drugs and methods for treating this disease.