Peripheral hypertension is a condition that occurs when high blood pressure remains untreated over a prolonged period of time.Peripheral Hypertension

Also known as high blood pressure, it causes additional strain of the arteries of upper and lower limbs by narrowing the blood vessels.

This condition is commonly associated with peripheral artery diseases, since; high blood pressure contracts the peripheral arteries and gets damaged. Fat deposition in arteries can also narrow down the arterial walls, blocking the blood flow causing hypertension.

This results in improper blood flow in the arms and legs, leading to painful cramps. Improper blood flow causes low oxygen content in the blood causing muscle cramps. The normal blood pressure range of the human body at rest is between the range of  100-130mm/Hg systolic pressure and 60-80mm/Hs diastolic pressure.
Symptoms:

  • Pain during walking,
  • Cause pain and discomfort during rest as well,
  • Colder feet and calves, and
  • Sore legs and feet.

Risk Factors:

  • Ageing (above 50)
  • Smoking habits
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Hypertension
  • High cholesterol
  • Family history and
  • Increase in homocysteine.

It is recommended to see a doctor if you feel pain in legs, numbness, painful cramps, or other symptoms of peripheral artery diseases.

If the condition is left untreated it can cause complications like critical limb ischemia, stroke, and heart attack. Therefore, it is suggested to take preventions like avoid smoking, control blood sugar, exercise or walk for 30-45 min, control body weight, and adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent peripheral hypertension.