The Long Term Effects Of High Cholesterol You Didn't Know About

Peripheral Vascular Disease

One long-term effect of high cholesterol an individual might develop is peripheral vascular disease. This is a condition that affects one in twenty Americans over fifty years old. This can be a serious condition and can become fatal if left untreated. Peripheral vascular disease involves the narrowing of blood vessels in the body due to a build up of plaque. Blood has a far more difficult time passing through the vessels. As a result, a clot is easier to form. Should the clot make its way to a patient's lung, they could potentially die. Symptoms typically revolve around cramping. This condition can occur virtually anywhere in the body but is most common in the legs, buttocks, calves, hips, and thighs. Besides cramping, peripheral vascular disease patients may also experience pale or reddish-blue skin, particularly on their legs. Another symptom is legs being cool to the touch when they shouldn't be.

Uncover more long-term effects of high cholesterol now.