What are the 'Three Highs' in medicine from a vascular surgeon?

Author: Qin Daili, Vascular Surgery, Anhui North Coal and Electricity Group General Hospital. Review: Zhang Jun, Head of the General Surgery Oncology Department at the Emergency General Hospital, Chief Physician, Master's Supervisor. Surgeons discuss how high blood pressure, sugar, and lipids impact vascular health and propose lifestyle changes to reduce risks.

In our daily lives, the term 'three highs' has probably become very familiar to us. The 'three highs' refer to high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high blood lipids, concepts that everyone knows well. But have you ever considered the combined impact these three conditions have on our vascular health, particularly the blood vessels in the extremities like our hands and feet? Today, vascular surgeons will discuss the 'love-hate relationship' between the three highs and vascular diseases affecting the extremities, exploring ways to incorporate 'healthier choices' into our lives to mitigate these risks!

How do the 'three highs' come knocking at the door? The 'three highs' we often mention—high blood pressure, high blood lipids, and high blood sugar—are primarily brought about by a combination of genetic predisposition and lifestyle habits. If a family member has experienced these conditions, the likelihood of their descendants developing similar issues significantly increases. This is attributable to genetics influencing the fundamental health of blood vessels, lipid metabolism, and insulin efficiency, effectively imposing a 'burden' from birth. However, the more critical driving force lies in our daily behavioral patterns.

As individuals age, their blood vessels can also become 'rusty.' Furthermore, these three high conditions tend to worsen one another; for example, high blood lipids may be exacerbated by diabetes or hypothyroidism—these troublesome 'neighbors.' They share a common characteristic: all promote a chaotic environment within the blood vessels, resulting in a variety of vascular problems. This is particularly concerning for peripheral vascular diseases, which often affect the arteries and veins in the arms and legs. Such conditions can lead to pain and weakness in the limbs, and in severe cases, one may face the difficult decision of amputation, or risk facing life-threatening situations. Unmonitored blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood lipids result in damage to blood vessel walls, creating a 'junkyard' of atherosclerosis (plaques) that severely restricts blood flow. Imagine blood vessels akin to water pipes, obstructed by limescale and impurities—would water flow smoothly? Over time, compromised blood circulation can provoke tissue 'hypoxia' and suffocation, further impairing our body's vital functions.

What is the 'lethality' of high blood pressure and high blood sugar on blood vessels? The three highs (high blood pressure, high blood lipids, high blood sugar) truly represent 'priority targets' for the blood vessels in our hands and feet! The blood vessels servicing our extremities are the 'branches' extending to the limbs, kidneys, and eyes, apart from the 'main arteries' leading to the heart and brain. When subjected to continuous stress from the three highs, they may eventually 'go on strike'.

Moreover, the three highs can also 'damage' the microvessels in areas like the skin and internal organs, leading to inadequate blood supply that results in slower wound healing, while internal organs may suffer functional decline due to 'microcirculation' failure. Such damage accumulates gradually, much like the metaphor of 'boiling a frog in warm water.' Therefore, managing the three highs is crucial for maintaining the health of the blood vessels in the hands and feet.

How to outsmart and maneuver around the three highs? Despite the significant threat posed by the three high conditions (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol) to our vascular health, we are not powerless! By implementing some lifestyle adjustments, we can effectively lessen the adverse effects of these conditions and safeguard our blood vessels with just a few proactive steps.

Overall, the influence of the 'three highs' (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol) on peripheral vascular disease is notably pronounced, yet we possess 'health treasures'! By adopting a smart diet, remaining physically active, fostering a positive outlook, and scheduling regular health check-ups, we can successfully intervene in the course of the three highs and protect our vascular health. Let’s unite in action, embrace a healthier lifestyle, bid farewell to the three highs, and welcome a brighter future!