Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Prevention
Peripheral arterial disease is a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your head, organs, and limbs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue, and other substances in the blood.
Part of: Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Prevention of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Taking action to control your risk factors can help prevent or delay peripheral arterial disease (P.A.D.) and its complications.
Know your family history of health problems related to P.A.D. If you or someone in your family has the disease, be sure to tell your doctor.
If you smoke, quit. Smoking is the main risk factor for P.A.D. Your risk of P.A.D. increases four times if you smoke or have a history of smoking. Talk with your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit smoking. Also, try to avoid secondhand smoke.
The Health Topics Smoking and Your Heart article and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI’s) “Your Guide to a Healthy Heart” both include information about how to quit smoking.
Follow a healthy diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A healthy diet also includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and fat-free or low-fat… Read more about Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Prevention