Ask the doctor: What does a low ankle-brachial index mean?
Because I'm a former smoker and was having leg pains, my doctor recommended that I have an ankle-brachial index test. He said my score was on the low side. What does that mean? Smokers have a higher-than-average risk for PAD. By quitting, you've already taken a vital first step to lowering your risk. Now, make sure you minimize any other risks, which are the same as those for coronary artery disease. Getting regular exercise is especially important; so is a eating a healthy diet and achieving normal cholesterol and blood pressure values.
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