Last Updated on May 16, 2025 by Analgesia team
What is PVD in Medical?
PVD stands for Peripheral Vascular Disease—a common circulatory condition where blood flow to parts of the body outside the heart and brain is reduced due to narrowed or blocked blood vessels.
It’s often used interchangeably with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), especially when arteries (not veins) are involved.
What Causes PVD?
The most common cause is atherosclerosis—a buildup of fatty plaque inside the blood vessels. This narrows or blocks blood flow, especially to the legs and feet. In some cases, blood vessels can also spasm or become inflamed.
In simple terms: Your arteries become clogged or stiff, making it harder for blood to reach your limbs.
Common Symptoms of PVD
PVD can develop slowly and silently. But as blood flow worsens, symptoms may include:
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Leg pain while walking (claudication)
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Burning or aching pain in feet or toes at rest
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Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
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Thin, shiny skin on legs and feet
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Hair loss on legs
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Coldness in one leg or foot
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Sores or wounds that don’t heal
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Changes in skin colour
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Impotence (in men)
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Pain in the buttocks or thighs, especially during exertion
Potential Complications of Untreated PVD
If not addressed early, it can lead to serious consequences:
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Critical limb ischemia (CLI): Chronic lack of blood flow that can result in tissue death, infection, or even amputation
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Heart attack or stroke: Because the same plaque buildup can affect the heart and brain
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How Is PVD Treated?
The good news? PVD is treatable—and often reversible—if caught early. Treatment usually combines lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgery:
Lifestyle changes:
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Quit smoking (a major risk factor)
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Manage diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol
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Eat a heart-healthy diet
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Exercise regularly
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Lose excess weight
Medical treatments:
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Medications to improve blood flow, reduce cholesterol, or prevent blood clots
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Angioplasty or bypass surgery in severe cases
Bottom line: Early diagnosis and lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference in managing PVD