Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) affects arteries in the arms and legs, causing pain, weakness, and slow healing sores. It is caused by a buildup of plaque and is more common in men over 50, African Americans, and those with a family history of heart disease. Treatment includes quitting smoking, exercise, a balanced diet, medication, and in extreme cases, bypass surgery or amputation.
Peripheral vascular disease, also known as PVD, is a common disorder affecting the arteries in the arms and legs. This disease is sometimes called peripheral artery disease. The condition affects more men than women, and the likelihood of developing it increases with age. When the arteries leading to the extremities become blocked, doctors diagnose PVD.
Symptoms of peripheral vascular disease include pain and weakness in the extremities. The individual may also complain of muscle cramps. Other symptoms of PVD are sores that don’t heal or take a long time to heal. The hands or feet may have a bluish tinge or feel colder to the touch than other parts of the body. These signals are due to a reduction in traffic in the area.
The blockage of the arteries characteristic of PVD is caused by a buildup of fatty materials within the walls of the arteries. Known as plaque, it builds up over time. As a result, the affected arm or leg doesn’t get the food or oxygen it needs to stay healthy. If the condition isn’t diagnosed early, cells in the body begin to die.
Peripheral vascular disease is more likely to affect men over the age of 50. Additionally, African Americans are more susceptible than people of other races to developing PVD. Being overweight also increases the likelihood of having blocked arteries.
Family history also plays a role in determining risk factors for PVD. If you have a personal or family health history that includes heart attack, stroke, or vascular disease, then your level of risk is higher than for someone who doesn’t share that history. If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, you are more likely to develop this condition as well.
Treatment of peripheral vascular disease can take many forms. If you are a smoker, your doctor will likely advise you to quit. You will probably be told that you also need to be more physically active. Eating a balanced diet and limiting your intake of saturated fats will help improve your overall health and reduce the buildup of plaque in our arteries.
Your doctor may also prescribe medications to treat PVD. Bypass surgery is an option when damage to the artery is extensive and other treatments have failed. Only in extreme cases where gangrene has set in would amputation be recommended for the condition.
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