What is Peripheral Vascular Disease?

Peripheral vascular disease refers to diseases of the arteries in the arms and legs. It occurs when the arteries become narrowed and/or blocked, mainly in the legs and feet.

Risk Factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Symptoms

• Cramps/pains/aches (claudication) in the calf or buttocks upon walking
• Painful feet when resting or during the night
• Shiny skin
• Hair loss on the legs
• Wounds/ulcers that won’t heal

Investigations and treatment

Blood flow through the arteries is checked using an ultrasound scan. Sometimes a CT angiogram or a diagnostic catheter angiogram is required. Treatment depends on the patient and symptoms. Modification of risk factors is always first choice but sometimes surgical treatment is required and this is usually endovascular (minimal access) if possible. This could involve angioplasty or stenting the diseased artery.