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 PVD is a disease of the vessels that carry blood to the arms and legs. The arteries of the legs are most often affected. Over time, the arteries become narrow or clogged, stopping the flow of blood. PVD is usually caused by atherosclerosis, commonly known as hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is a gradual process in which cholesterol and scar tissue build up inside the artery.
The most common symptom of PVD is leg pain, usually noticed when walking or
exercising, which goes away after a few minutes of rest. Other symptoms
include but are not limited to:
- numbness or coldness in the legs and feet
- ulcers or sores in the legs and feet that do not heal
Anyone can develop PVD, but it occurs most often in people over the age of
50. Contributing factors include smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes,
and elevated cholesterol, a family history of heart or vascular disease,
and obesity.
The treatment of PVD depends on your overall health, the location of the
affected artery and the nature of the blockage or narrowing of the artery.
In many cases PVD can be treated without surgery by interventional
radiologists.
To see if you are at risk for PVD or to set up a free screening, call
Interventional Radiology at 879-3732
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