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Peripheral vascular diseasePeripheral vascular disease (PVD) deals with problems in the arteries or veins outside the heart that prevent the normal flow of blood or weaken blood vessel walls. Characterized by blood clots, narrowed or "hardened" arteries (atherosclerosis) or poor circulation, PVD can affect people of all ages, but is most common after age 50. Varicose veins, frequent cramps in the legs or feet and tingling or numbness in the extremities are typical symptoms. People who smoke or have coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, adult-onset diabetes or some forms of kidney disease are at increased risk for developing peripheral vascular disease. The legs are one of the most common sites affected by PVD. Spider veins and varicose veins are some of the signs that blood is having trouble flowing back to the heart. Other symptoms include a pale or blue skin tone, cold legs or feet, or loss of hair on the lower extremities. Swelling in the leg, cramping or pain can be signs of a more serious blockage in an artery. Because some PVD symptoms are easily misinterpreted as part of growing older, many people do not seek medical evaluation. Left untreated, PVD can get progressively worse and lead to the loss of the limb, a stroke or possibly death. A physical exam, including blood pressure screening of the arms and legs, helps diagnose peripheral vascular disease. Differences in blood pressure in the extremities may indicate blockages in the blood circulation system. Other diagnostic procedures, such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or angiography may be ordered. Mild forms of PVD can be treated with exercise, diet and medications to lower cholesterol levels, relieve pain and improve blood flow. More severe blockages are treated with angioplasty, endarterectomy or bypass surgery. [ Previous page ]
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