Most of us know how serious cardiovascular diseases can be. In order for the body to function properly it is important that oxygen rich blood reach all organs. Blood is carried throughout the body by arteries. Normal arteries are smooth and expandable, allowing blood to move freely and easily.
Atherosclerosis occurs over time as the arteries gradually narrow because of buildup of plaque.
When this occurs, less blood is able to get through, reducing delivery of oxygen-rich blood to the heart and other organs. PAD can progress over time so as to completely block blood flow to the legs. In these advanced stages of PAD, pain may be experienced even at rest and unrelieved with rest. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of these events. Stanford University Medical Center researchers are looking for volunteers to help determine whether a common food supplement L-arginine can improve blood flow to diseased leg arteries, thus alleviating pain, difficulty walking and other symptoms of narrowed blood vessels.