What is PVD?
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) is an arterial disease causing a reduced blood supply to parts of the body, which in this case are the feet and legs. The main cause is atherosclerosis, which is a result of fatty deposits building up on the sides of the arteries making it difficult or impossible for blood to pass.
What are the symptoms?
PVD is most common in the legs and kidneys. Diabetes and infection are also common causes of PVD. Not all individuals who have PVD are symptomatic. Those with symptoms may experience:
- Pain throughout the leg and sometimes the foot
- Pain while walking
- Achy pain in the feet or toes while at rest
- Sores on feet that do not heal
- Pale, bluish, or dark reddish foot colour
How is PVD managed?
Those with PVD must first address the underlying cause of the disease, such as diabetes. Your doctor will assist you in treating the relevant health factors. Begin with a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, staying away from foods that have unhealthy cholesterol, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight. Smoking hardens the arteries, so it is important to quit.
At South Burnett Podiatry, we perform thorough peripheral vascular assessments to identify the extent of the damage to your vessels and monitor the progression over time. You will also be provided with important advice to minimise the associated risk factors and provide appropriate care for your feet and legs.