Explore health content from A to Z.
I need information about...
Visit Our Heart Health Center
Vascular Conditions and Diseases
Medical Management of Vascular Conditions
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a slow and progressive circulation disorder. It may involve disease in any of the blood vessels outside of the heart and diseases of the lymph vessels—the arteries, veins, or lymphatic vessels. Organs supplied by these vessels such as the brain, heart, and legs, may not receive adequate blood flow for ordinary function. However, the legs and feet are most commonly affected, thus the name peripheral vascular disease.
PVD is often characterized by a narrowing of the vessels that carry blood to the leg and arm muscles. The most common cause is atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque inside the artery wall).
Approximately half the people diagnosed with peripheral vascular disease are symptom free. For those experiencing symptoms, the most common first symptom is intermittent leg discomfort.
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for peripheral vascular disease may include any a combination of several different tests.
There are two main goals for treatment of peripheral artery/vascular disease: control the symptoms and halt the progression of the disease to lower the risk for heart attack, stroke, and other complications.
Copyright © 2014 Baylor Health Care System All Rights Reserved. |
3500 Gaston Avenue, Dallas, TX 75246-2017 | 1.800.4BAYLOR