What Is Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)? Recognizing the Warning Signs
Everyday, your circulatory system relies on a vast network of blood vessels to carry oxygen and nutrients to all your organs, muscles, and tissues. However, when these vessels become blocked or narrowed, blood can’t move as efficiently as it should. When blood flow is reduced to areas other than the brain or heart, such as the arms, hands, legs, and feet, it can lead to a condition known as peripheral vascular disease (PVD).
PVD occurs when blood vessels become narrowed or blocked by a buildup of fatty deposits along the vessel walls, which limits or blocks the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach the muscles and tissues. Over time, this lack of circulation can cause pain, numbness, slow-healing wounds, and, in severe cases, tissue damage. However, with early detection and proper care, the disease can often be managed effectively and kept from getting worse.
Early Warning Signs
Because PVD develops gradually, the warning signs may seem subtle, and in some cases, non-existent. Here are a few signs to pay attention to:
- Leg pain when walking or exercising that eases when you rest
- Legs or feet that feel cooler than normal
- Numbness, tingling, or heaviness in the limbs
- Shiny skin and/or thinking hair on legs
If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms, especially if you have risk factors like smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, reach out to a vascular specialist as soon as possible.
Why Early Detection Matters
Catching PVD early is key to preventing serious outcomes. Ignoring early symptoms allows PVD to progress quietly, sometimes until it causes severe pain or infection. As circulation declines, tissues can become starved of oxygen, increasing the risk of ulcers, gangrene, and, in the most advanced stages, amputation. But when the disease is recognized early, there’s a wide window to intervene.
Lifestyle adjustments, medications, and minimally invasive treatments can restore blood flow, relieve symptoms, and prevent further damage. Early diagnosis also helps identify underlying cardiovascular risks that could affect your heart and brain.
How Carient’s Specialists Help Protect Your Circulation
At Carient Heart & Vascular, our vascular specialists use advanced diagnostic imaging and evidence-based treatments to identify and manage PVD early. Testing may include, but is not limited to, an X-ray of the arteries (known as an angiogram), Doppler ultrasound, and/or blood pressure comparisons between your arms and ankles to assess blood flow.
Treatment is always tailored to your unique circumstances. For some, conservative measures like medication and exercise are enough to restore circulation. Others may benefit from minimally invasive procedures, such as angioplasty, to open narrowed arteries and improve oxygen delivery to the limbs.
Whatever your needs, Carient’s team provides ongoing support to help you move comfortably and prevent future complications. Our goal is simple: to keep your limbs healthy, your circulation strong, and your life in motion.
Don’t wait for symptoms to limit your movement or comfort. Schedule an appointment with a vascular specialist at Carient Heart & Vascular today to take control of your circulation and protect your long-term health.