OHSU Start! Question of the Month

 

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Q: What is peripheral arterial disease and am I at risk?

A: Peripheral arterial disease is a condition in which fatty deposits build up in the arteries outside the heart. These deposits often restrict blood circulation in the legs and cause leg pain during activity. Many people, however, have no symptoms.

People with peripheral arterial disease have a four-to-five-times greater risk of heart attack or stroke than those without the disease. You are at greater risk of peripheral arterial disease if you:

  • Are over age 50
  • Smoke
  • Are overweight
  • Have diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol

The good news: Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve symptoms and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Archived Questions:
Are the signs of a heart attack different for women?

At what age should I start getting heart-related screening tests? 


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Your heart is a hard-working muscle. Slightly larger than your fist, it pumps about 2,000 gallons of blood daily. It beats approximately 100,000 times a day.
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