Beware of leg attack
A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise coupled with smoking puts one at a higher risk of lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes and hypertension which consequently advance the risk of a leg attack.
A leg attack can be defined as a disease resulting from restricted blood flow, such as that caused by an arterial blockage in the lower limb. Due to the lack of blood supply this can lead to cramping, pain, tiredness in the legs and hip muscles while walking, foot or toe wounds that do not heal or heal very slowly, the leg and foot becoming cold, dry or shiny looking skin.
Leg attacks happen because of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) where a piece of cholesterol, calcium or a blood clot abruptly breaks away from the lining of the artery or a narrowed artery is completely blocked leading to damage of the organ that is being supplied blood by that artery. The organs in PAD most commonly affected are the legs.
Another condition called Intermittent Claudication (IC) happens when there is blockage in the arteries supplying blood to the legs leading to pain or cramps. This can even limit casual walking but the pain is relieved with rest.
It is estimated that in India approximately five million diabetics will suffer from leg attack by the middle of this year. A known diabetic who smokes is at even greater risk of developing the disease. The condition if not treated, can lead to disastrous consequences like amputation.
To prevent this nightmare, early detection is the key. Diagnosis of this disease can be done via the following tests…
w Ankle Brachial Index (ABI): A non-invasive
test that compares the
blood pressure between the arms and legs. Abnormal ratios indicate decreased
circulation
w Ultrasound Doppler: A non-invasive procedure that assesses the degree of circulatory impairment
w Angiography: CT scans to produce views of the arteries and surrounding structures.
w Arteriography: A test in which dye is injected into the artery and X-rays are taken to show the arteries in the legs and any blockages that may be present.
Current treatments for peripheral arterial occlusions include angioplasty, stents, surgical bypass and concerned medications. However, if caught in time, leg attacks can be easily treated with suitable drugs and some simple exercises and physiotherapy.
Besides smoking cessation lifestyle changes leading to healthy blood circulation, lowered blood pressure, managing cholesterol levels, blood glucose and following a regular exercise regime should be adopted in order to escape further complications and promote a healthy lifestyle.
The writer is Chairman, Division of Peripheral Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, Medanta – The Medicity
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