With lifestyle changes and population aging, atherosclerosis now affects up to 80% of Chinese adults over 60, making it one of the most prevalent diseases among the elderly.
Primary causes include hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, smoking, and obesity.Atherosclerotic lesions can occur in arteries of all sizes throughout the body. As seen in familiar conditions like cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, these lesions can lead to severe consequences. When such lesions develop in the arteries of the limbs, particularly the lower extremities, the condition is termed "lower limb atherosclerotic occlusive disease." The progressive enlargement of atherosclerotic plaques and secondary thrombus formation can cause narrowing or blockage of the arterial lumen, impairing blood flow to the lower limbs and resulting in ischemic symptoms.This condition predominantly affects older adults, with males being more susceptible, typically over the age of 50. Due to insufficient awareness among patients and some clinicians, it is often misdiagnosed as occlusive vasculitis, osteophytes, rheumatic diseases, or other conditions. Consequently, timely treatment is frequently delayed, and some patients may face amputation due to delayed intervention.Zhang Xicheng, Vascular Surgery Department, Subei People's Hospital The primary manifestations of lower limb atherosclerotic occlusive disease include: cold sensitivity and chilliness in the feet, calf cramps and pain that intensifies after walking short distances, often forcing the patient to stop and rest; in severe cases, pain persists even at rest, with nighttime toe pain causing insomnia, leading patients to sit hugging their feet in extreme distress;Skin changes in the affected limb include pallor or cyanosis, thinning skin, sparse hair growth, and deformed toenails. In advanced stages, ischemic ulcers or blackened necrosis may develop on the toes, with wounds that are difficult to heal. Without timely and appropriate treatment, amputation often becomes necessary.
For patients with lower limb atherosclerotic occlusion experiencing severe pain or blackened necrosis of the feet, prompt consideration of vascular intervention or bypass surgery is essential. These procedures offer hope for restoring limb blood flow and preventing amputation. Of course, non-surgical treatments can also yield favorable outcomes for some early-stage patients.First, quitting smoking and modifying unhealthy lifestyle habits, supplemented by treatments to lower blood pressure, reduce lipids, dilate blood vessels, and promote blood circulation, can generally control disease progression. Second, under medical guidance, appropriate and regular walking exercises can facilitate the formation of collateral circulation, alleviating symptoms in over 80% of patients.The specific exercise method involves walking until symptoms appear, then stopping. Once symptoms subside, resume walking. Repeat this cycle for one hour daily.