The cardiovascular system is one of the most vital for survival. The heart assists in pumping blood throughout the body. The blood carries essential products like oxygen and nutrients. It also carries waste materials like carbon dioxide and excess water that the body should eliminate. The vascular system includes blood vessels that are the media for transporting blood. Patients must collaborate with a peripheral vascular specialist in Jackson Heights, NY, who can diagnose and manage conditions that interfere with blood flow.
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What is peripheral vascular disease?
Blood is usually free-flowing inside vessels. However, if the vessels are gunked up, it causes narrowing, making flow difficult and restricted. Peripheral Vascular Disease, PVD, is a condition consisting of narrowed blood vessels, specifically those located away from the heart or brain.
What causes peripheral vascular disease?
Peripheral vascular disease is caused by arteriosclerosis of the veins or arteries. Arteriosclerosis is the buildup of plaque in blood vessels. The plaque takes up much of the space in the vessels, thus causing a narrowing. As the plaque continues to build up over time, blood clots may start to develop. These structures are hazardous because they significantly reduce the amount of oxygen circulating in the body. If the arms and legs do not get enough oxygen, a patient will experience discomfort while walking.
If you notice symptoms suggesting peripheral vascular disease, it would be best to seek treatment as soon as possible because your condition may quickly progress into ischemia, resulting in loss of the affected limb.
What are the risk factors for peripheral vascular disease?
Various factors like smoking, increased cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure put you at a higher risk of developing peripheral vascular disease. If you have type 2 diabetes, your chances of developing vascular disease increase. Most men over the age of 50 reported experiencing peripheral vascular disease symptoms. Postmenopausal women are also at a higher risk. Moreover, if you are overweight and live a sedentary lifestyle, you should not be surprised to receive a peripheral vascular disease diagnosis.
What are the symptoms of peripheral vascular disease?
Although PVD is a severe condition, not all patients are lucky to experience symptoms that will help them seek treatment as soon as possible. However, when symptoms begin to appear, they are most noticeable during an activity like walking. Most patients report feeling pain and discomfort in their arms or feet. The discomfort may be in the form of aches, burns, or muscle fatigue. As the disease progresses, a patient will experience symptoms during moments of inactivity.
Other signs pointing to the peripheral vascular disease include;
· The skin of the legs and feet may become thin and shiny
· Wounds and ulcers that take a long to heal.
· Thinning of leg hair
· Toes may become blue.
Finding the best treatment for peripheral vascular disease
There are a variety of effective treatments for peripheral vascular disease. Your doctor should confirm your diagnosis before recommending a treatment. A personalized plan will focus on your individual needs and provide optimal results. Contact Premier Vascular to learn about the available treatment options for peripheral vascular disease and find out the best option to restore functionality and comfort.