What is Peripheral Vascular Disease?

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a condition that affects blood flow outside of the heart, most often in the legs. It occurs when blood vessels become narrowed or blocked, limiting the amount of oxygen-rich blood reaching tissues.

Over time, reduced circulation can affect how your muscles and skin function, especially during activity. Many people know this condition as peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

What causes PVD?

The most common cause is plaque buildup inside the arteries (atherosclerosis), which narrows the vessels and reduces blood flow.

Risk factors include:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• Lack of physical activity
• Being overweight
• Age over 50 or a history of heart disease

Symptoms

PVD develops gradually, and some people may not notice symptoms at first. When symptoms do appear, they are usually related to reduced blood flow.

Common symptoms include:

• Leg pain or cramping during walking that improves with rest
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Cool or shiny skin on the lower legs or feet
• Slow-healing sores on the feet or ankles
• Changes in skin color, such as pale or bluish tones
• Pain in the toes or feet, especially at night
• Reduced hair growth on the legs

In more advanced cases, severe pain or tissue damage can occur.

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will begin with a physical exam and review your medical history. They may check pulses in your legs and look for signs of reduced circulation.

Common tests include:

• Ankle-brachial index (ABI): compares blood pressure in the arm and ankle
• Ultrasound: shows how blood moves through your vessels
• Imaging tests, such as angiography or MRA, to locate blockages
• Exercise testing: evaluates symptoms during activity

These tests help determine the severity of the condition and guide treatment.

How is it treated?

Treatment focuses on improving blood flow and preventing the condition from getting worse.

Early treatments may include:

• Regular physical activity, especially walking programs
• Heart-healthy eating habits
• Quitting smoking
• Managing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol

Medications may be used to:

• Improve circulation
• Prevent blood clots

If symptoms are more severe, procedures may be recommended:

• Angioplasty: opens narrowed arteries using a balloon or stent
• Atherectomy or laser therapy: removes or breaks down plaque
• Bypass surgery: reroutes blood flow around blocked arteries

With proper care, many people can manage symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.