Peripheral vascular disease (PVD)

If you experience persistent leg pain, circulation concerns, or non-healing wounds, you may have peripheral vascular disease (PVD). When you need an accurate diagnosis and personalized care for circulation issues, rely on the experienced team of providers at AssociatesMD, with locations in Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Weston, Margate, Dania Beach, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Schedule your consultation by phone or online to learn more about how Associates MD can protect your health.

What is peripheral vascular disease (PVD)?

AssociatesMD addresses circulatory issues such as peripheral vascular disease (PVD), which affects blood vessels outside of your heart and brain, typically impacting your legs and feet. 

PVD results from narrowed, blocked, or damaged blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the limbs. As a result, your muscles and tissues may not receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to function properly.

Because PVD can develop gradually, you may not even realize you have it until symptoms become more noticeable. With early diagnosis and treatment, the team can help prevent complications and improve your overall vascular health.

What factors can increase my risk for PVD?

Several factors can increase your risk of PVD, particularly smoking, which damages blood vessels and contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries.

Other common risk factors include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Family history of vascular disease
• Age, especially over 50
• Heart disease or a history of stroke

Regular checkups at AssociatesMD can help identify your risks early and support preventive care.

What are the symptoms of PVD?

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Leg pain, cramping, or fatigue during walking or exercise
• Pain that improves with rest
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Coldness in the lower leg or foot
• Changes in skin color or texture
• Slow-healing wounds or sores on the feet or legs
• Reduced hair growth on the legs
• Weak or absent pulses in the feet

You may experience mild symptoms or have more significant circulation problems, depending on the severity of the condition.

How is PVD treated?

Treatment for PVD focuses on improving blood flow, reducing symptoms, and lowering the risk of complications. 

Lifestyle changes are often the first step and may include:

• Quitting smoking
• Increasing physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Following a heart-healthy diet
• Managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to improve your circulation, control cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, or prevent blood clots. In more advanced cases, they may recommend specialized vascular procedures to open blocked arteries and restore blood flow.

If you have symptoms of PVD or are concerned about your risk, schedule an appointment with AssociatesMD by phone or online today.