Peripheral arterial disease from smoking
Many people who smoke are aware of the health risks associated with continued smoking. Did you know that smoking cigarette can increase your risk of peripheral arterial disease (PAD)? This article will cover everything you need to know regarding smoking and peripheral arterial disease.
Smoking is a risk factor for PAD
Peripheral arterial disease is the accumulation of plaque in the arteries, which blocks blood flow to the feet and legs. This is a serious condition that can cause severe health problems. The only way to avoid peripheral artery disease is to quit smoking.
Additionally, 90% of PAD patients are ex-smokers or current smokers.
The Benefits of Quitting Smoking
Quitting smoking can be good for your overall health, but it can also slow the progression of peripheral arterial disease. Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) who quit smoking have a significantly higher chance of surviving the long-term.
Ex-smokers who had PAD 10 years ago survived 82% compared to 46% for current smokers. Some studies suggest that peripheral artery disease symptoms may improve when a smoker stops smoking.
Smokers are at significantly higher risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Negative Impacts of Smoking on PAD
More than 4,000 compounds are found in cigarettes, many of them toxic. Nicotine and carbon monoxide are the compounds that receive the most attention. Recent research suggests that other components of cigarette smoking may be responsible for atherosclerosis.
Toxins in cigarettes can cause damage to different biochemical pathways. Smoking can cause damage to the body and increase the risk of developing peripheral arterial disease.
Smoking is a major risk factor to developing critical limb ischemia (CLI), the most severe form of PAD.
Critic limb ischemia refers to severe plaque blockage of the arteries in your lower limbs, such as your feet and legs. CLI can cause pain in your legs, especially at rest. It can also lead to ulcers and gangrene. A majority of critical limb ischemia patients are either ex-smokers or smokers.
Sometimes, smoking can have severe consequences. Patients with PAD who smoke more often than those who don’t are at greater risk of having to have their limbs amputated.
