Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) involves the arteries of the arms and legs.
Arteries are the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the rest
of the body. The major cause of PVD is hardening of the arteries. PVD is most
often seen in patients over 40 years of age and is worsened or accelerated
by smoking, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle and elevated cholesterol levels.
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) develops gradually. The first symptom is
usually an aching, tired feeling in the leg muscles when walking. It usually
occurs in the calf, but may be in the thigh. The pain is relieved with rest
but returns after the same amount of walking. A similar symptom is experienced
in the arms after prolonged use.
Typical signs and symptoms of PVD may include, but are not limited to the
following:
- Pain, Aches, Cramps, Numbness or Muscle Fatigue in the Legs or Arms
- Cold or Numbness in the Feet and Toes
- Hair Loss on the Affected Extremity
- Thickened Nails
- Pale, Shiny Skin
- Cool or Bluish Colored Skin
- Decreased or Absent Pulses in the Feet and Ankles
- Diabetes
- Infections
- Obesity
- Metabolic Disorders
- Stress
- Tumors that Cause Blockage
- Irritation of the Arteries
|
- Anticoagulant Drugs
- Clot Dissolving Drugs
- Angioplasty or Stent
- Surgery
|
Smoking is a major factor in the development of the disease. If you
do smoke, make every effort to stop. Exercise is a vital part of
the treatment as well. Walking up to one hour each day is strongly recommended.
Practicing good skin care and using anti-fungal or antibiotic medications
are a good ideal if skin rashes or infections develop.
Please click here, to take a few moments to fill out this “PVD at Risk” quiz. If you answered
yes to certain questions, you could have PVD. Contact your doctor or
St. Rita's Center for Peripheral Vascular Disease at (419) 996-5690.
St. Rita's Center for Disease Management is staffed with qualified nurses
and physicians who can assess your risk of PVD, including Dr. Rajjoub, Cardiologist
and Dr. Church, Radiologist. By simply taking your blood pressure measurements
in your arms and legs, a score is created that indicates your risk. It's fast,
painless and provides the information necessary to develop a course of treatment.
Screenings are available every Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
