Last Updated on October 18, 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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Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) can develop gradually, often without noticeable signs in the early stages. As blood flow to the legs and feet worsens, a variety of symptoms may appear, ranging from discomfort while walking to more serious circulation problems.
Leg pain while walking (claudication): One of the most common early signs of PVD is pain, cramping, or heaviness in the legs when walking or exercising. This occurs because muscles aren’t receiving enough oxygen-rich blood during activity, and the pain typically eases with rest.
Burning or aching pain at rest: As the condition progresses, some people may experience burning, throbbing, or aching pain in the feet or toes even when resting. This indicates more severe restriction of blood flow and requires prompt medical attention.
Numbness, tingling, or weakness: Reduced circulation can lead to numbness, pins-and-needles sensations, or weakness in the legs. These symptoms may affect mobility and balance, increasing the risk of falls.
Skin changes: PVD can cause thin, shiny skin on the legs and feet, as well as hair loss in the affected areas. Coldness in one leg or foot, along with changes in skin colour—pale, bluish, or reddish—can also be signs of poor blood flow.
Non-healing sores or wounds: Cuts, blisters, or ulcers on the legs and feet may heal slowly or not at all due to insufficient circulation. Persistent sores increase the risk of infection and complications.
Impotence (in men): In some cases, PVD can reduce blood flow to the pelvic region, leading to erectile dysfunction. This symptom is more common in men with advanced disease.
Pain in the buttocks or thighs during exertion: If arteries higher up in the legs or pelvis are affected, pain or cramping may occur in the buttocks or thighs during walking or exercise. Like claudication in the calves, this pain usually eases with rest but indicates significant arterial narrowing.
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