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Peripheral artery disease (PAD): symptoms, diagnosis, treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD): symptoms, diagnosis, treatment.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory problem in which plaque builds up in the arteries of the extremities, most commonly in the legs. This buildup of plaque reduces blood flow to the legs, leading to symptoms such as leg pain, numbness, and fatigue. PAD is often associated with other conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

The most common symptom of PAD is intermittent claudication, which is cramping pain in the legs that occurs when walking or exercising and is relieved by rest. Other symptoms may include leg numbness, coldness, sores that do not heal, color changes in the feet, and slow growth of toenails.

Diagnosis of PAD is done through physical exam, medical history, and imaging tests such as ultrasounds and angiograms. It is important to diagnose PAD early as it can increase your risk for heart attack or stroke.

Treatment of PAD typically involves lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, controlling your cholesterol and blood pressure, and exercising regularly. Your doctor may also prescribe medications such as statins, anticoagulants, and antiplatelet drugs. In some cases, surgery or angioplasty may be recommended to open blocked arteries.

High blood pressure or hypertension: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment.

High blood pressure or hypertension: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a very common condition in which the pressure of the blood in the arteries is higher than normal. Symptoms of high blood pressure may include headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Diagnosis of hypertension involves measuring your blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer. Treatment of high blood pressure involves lifestyle modifications such as reducing salt intake, increasing physical activity, and avoiding alcohol and cigarettes. In some cases, medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors may be prescribed to help lower blood pressure.

High cholesterol: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment.

High cholesterol: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment.

High cholesterol is a condition in which the body has an abnormally high level of cholesterol in the blood. It can be caused by lifestyle factors such as an unhealthy diet or lack of physical activity, or it can be genetic. Symptoms of high cholesterol may include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and shortness of breath. Diagnosis of high cholesterol is typically done through a blood test. Treatment for high cholesterol includes lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet and exercising, as well as medications such as statins. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to reduce cholesterol levels.

What is Atherosclerosis: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment?

What is Atherosclerosis: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment?

Atherosclerosis is a condition where the arteries become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of fatty substances and other materials. It is a common form of cardiovascular disease and can lead to a variety of health complications, including heart attack and stroke. Symptoms of atherosclerosis can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Diagnosis is typically done through imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment involves lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, as well as medications to lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to open up blocked arteries.