Peripheral Vascular Disease

Specialized treatments in The Woodlands | Conroe | Spring | North Houston

Vascular disease is when there is a buildup of plaque, formed mainly of cholesterol, on the walls of the arteries that supply blood to your legs and other organs.

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD): Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Does your leg hurt or become cramped while you walk or climb stairs? The pain may subside when you rest but returns when you start moving again. This cycle of pain is known as intermittent claudication, and it can be a sign of Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD).

PVD occurs when the blood vessels that supply blood to your lower body become narrowed or blocked, making it harder for blood to reach your legs and feet. If left untreated, PVD can lead to gangrene, where foot and leg tissue may die, and in severe cases, amputation may be necessary.

If you are struggling with peripheral vascular disease or are experiencing foot pain call our foot doctor in The Woodlands at 936-273-6000 or schedule your appointment online.

Causes and Risk Factors of Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD):

Peripheral Vascular Disease is commonly caused by the following factors:

  • Plaque buildup – Fatty deposits and other materials collect along the inner walls of blood vessels, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow.

  • Aging – As you age, blood vessels naturally become damaged and more prone to narrowing.

  • Health conditions – Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes can make PVD worse and increase your risk.

  • Smoking – Smoking accelerates the damage to blood vessels and increases the risk of developing PVD.

Symptoms of Peripheral Vascular Disease:

Some common symptoms of PVD include:

  • Leg pain or cramping during walking or physical activity

  • Intermittent claudication – pain that improves with rest but returns when you start moving again

  • Numbness or weakness in the legs

  • Cold feet or shiny skin on your legs and feet

  • Wounds or sores on your feet or legs that are slow to heal

Managing Peripheral Vascular Disease:

To help manage PVD and reduce its impact on your leg and foot health, consider these key actions:

  • Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes – Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels can slow the progression of PVD.

  • Exercise regularly – Staying active can improve blood circulation and help manage the symptoms of PVD.

  • Eat a heart-healthy diet – Eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol helps reduce plaque buildup in the blood vessels.

  • Quit smoking – Smoking cessation is crucial in preventing further damage to your blood vessels and improving blood flow.

  • Monitor your feet – Check your feet daily for any changes, including cuts, sores, or changes in skin color. If you have trouble seeing the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone to help you check.

Preventing Complications of PVD:

If left untreated, PVD can lead to serious complications such as gangrene or amputation. Taking proactive steps to manage your condition with the help of a healthcare professional is essential for preserving your leg and foot health.

Schedule an Appointment for PVD Care

If you are experiencing symptoms of PVD or want to learn more about how to manage this condition, don’t hesitate to contact our clinic. Our foot doctor in Conroe and team of specialists can provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan to improve circulation, relieve pain, and prevent further complications from Peripheral Vascular Disease.

Call us at 936-273-6000 or schedule your appointment online.