Claudication: 4 Home Remedies for that Pain in Your Leg

Does your leg start to hurt every time you go for a walk or start to exercise? If so, it might be more than a cramp. It could be claudication.

Claudication is usually a symptom of peripheral arterial disease, a circulatory problem that results when arteries in the arms or legs are clogged, adversely affecting the flow of blood through those arteries.

Peripheral arterial disease is a dangerous, potentially life threatening condition. So, if you suspect you peripheral arterial disease, you should see your doctor.

But, once peripheral arterial disease has been diagnosed, and you've started receiving the proper treatment for your condition, here are some things you can do to help ease the pain of claudication.

Get Plenty of Exercise

If you suffer from claudication, the pain probably starts when you engage in physical activity, like walking. However, despite the pain, it's important to keep up your exercise routine. Or to start a regular exercise routine if you haven't already.

Try to walk for about half an hour every day. And don't stop unless leg pain gets really severe. Then stop, wait until the pain passes, and start walking again.

After a few months, you'll find that the pain you suffer due to claudication will start to lessen.

Maintain Your Ideal Weight

Being overweight can put a lot of pressure on your legs and feet. And, if you're suffering from claudication, that can mean experiencing more pain than necessary.

So, if you're suffering from claudication, it's important to try to lose any extra pounds.

Watch Your Cholesterol

Peripheral arterial disease is often caused by atherosclerosis, meaning your arteries are clogged with fat and cholesterol. So, if you're suffering from claudication, watching your cholesterol is key. See your doctor to have your cholesterol levels checked. And, if they are too high, follow your doctor's recommendations on how to lower them.

Stop Smoking

It seems like, no matter what health problem you might be suffering from, giving up cigarettes is as the top of the list of things you should do to improve your condition. And claudication is no exception.

If you're suffering from a condition that narrows the arteries and affects blood flow, nicotine constricts the arteries and restricts blood flow even further. Smoking also increases the damage the condition is already doing to your body.

So, if you're suffering from peripheral arterial disease, giving up your smoking habit should be at the top of your list.

Because it is a symptom of a more serious medical condition, it's important to see your doctor if you suspect you're suffering from claudication. However, once you've been diagnosed, these home remedies will help you deal with the pain, and help to improve the quality of your life.