The symptom on the legs was called a sign of high cholesterol

Peripheral artery disease (PAD), also known as circulatory disorders, thickening of the arteries can lead to decreased blood flow to the arms, legs, head, and stomach. Often caused by high cholesterol, it gradually changes the skin on the legs.

According to The Midwest Institute for Non-surgical Therapy (Surgery Center, Missouri, USA), the most common cause of VAS is atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) inside the arteries. Less common causes of ZPA include infection or inflammation of blood vessels, exposure to radiation, and arm and leg injuries.

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What skin changes are in question

The symptoms and severity of peripheral arterial disease vary, but one of the most common signs is changes in skin color and texture. When blood flow is reduced, there is increased pressure in the arteries, which causes skin inflammation Without treatment, it manifests as sores, rashes, and ulcerations.

Medics have noted that changes to the skin occur gradually. They mostly occur on the feet and ankles.

"Initially it may be mild changes - a feeling of cool skin to the touch, its dryness and itching. The nails begin to grow slowly. There is also a decrease in hair growth on the legs as tissues begin to die off," the experts said.

They specified that in the moderate degree of the disease, redness and swelling appear, and skin pigmentation and thickening may occur.

Severe changes involve sores on the ankles, feet, and toes, as well as skin lesions that heal slowly.

"The most serious complication is gangrene, tissue death due to lack of blood flow," medics explained. Risk factors for ZPA skin changes

• Age: poor circulation usually develops in people over the age of 60.
• Previous injuries can impair the body's ability to circulate blood.

• Lack of exercise can also lead to poor blood flow.
• Obesity can increase the likelihood of skin problems due to increased pressure on blood vessels.
• Smoking can impair the ability of blood vessels to carry blood.
• Gender may also be a risk factor, as women have a higher incidence of peripheral artery disease than men.

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Signs and symptoms to look out for

In many cases, people with ZPA have no symptoms, so it is often difficult to identify the condition. However, if a person experiences the following changes, you should make an appointment with your doctor:

• Eczema or rash.
• Hyperpigmentation - darker areas of skin. They can develop as a result of an inadequate supply of blood and oxygen to the skin.
• Decreased hair growth on the legs and feet.
• Brittle toenails on the feet that grow slowly.
• Itchy skin.
• Shiny skin.
• Changes in skin color, such as turning blue or pale.
• Dry skin cracked skin.
• Sores on the feet or legs that may bleed and heal slowly.

Treatment for skin conditions of ZPA

• Doctors have noted that there is no cure for ZPA, but the manifestation of the disease can be reduced. To do this, you can:
• Give up smoking.
• Exercise regularly (walking is one of the best forms of exercise).
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Follow a healthy diet.
• Reduce alcohol consumption.
• Monitor blood sugar levels.

It is also recommended to have an examination by a specialist if you have the slightest suspicion of ZPA.

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