What is Peripheral Vascular Disease?
Peripheral Vascular Disease refers to a group of disorders that affect blood vessels outside of the heart and brain. These blood vessels, including arteries and veins, play a crucial role in supplying oxygen-rich blood to various parts of the body, such as the legs, arms, and abdomen. When these vessels become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) or other factors, it can lead to restricted blood flow, causing symptoms and complications.
Recognising the Symptoms:
One of the challenges with PVD is that it often manifests subtly, with symptoms that can be mistaken for other conditions or attributed to aging. However, being aware of the signs can help in early detection and intervention. Common symptoms of PVD include:
1. Leg Pain: This is perhaps the most recognisable symptom of PVD. Pain or cramping in the legs, especially during physical activity (intermittent claudication), can indicate reduced blood flow to the lower extremities.

2. Numbness or Weakness: Some individuals may experience numbness, weakness, or tingling sensations in the affected limbs.

3. Coldness or Discolouration: The affected limbs may feel colder than usual, and the skin may appear pale or bluish in colour.

4. Slow-healing Wounds: Reduced blood flow can impair the body’s ability to heal wounds, leading to slow-healing ulcers, particularly on the legs or feet.

5. Impotence: In men, PVD can sometimes manifest as erectile dysfunction due to compromised blood flow to the genital area.

Understanding the Risk Factors
Several factors contribute to the development of Peripheral Vascular Disease. These include:

1. Smoking: Tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors for PVD. Smoking damages blood vessels, accelerates plaque buildup, and increases the risk of complications.

2. Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing PVD due to elevated blood sugar levels that can damage blood vessels over time.

3. High Blood Pressure: Hypertension puts added strain on the arteries, contributing to atherosclerosis and narrowing of blood vessels.

4. High Cholesterol: Elevated levels of cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries.

5. Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of PVD as it strains the cardiovascular system and promotes atherosclerosis.

6. Age and Family History: Advancing age and a family history of cardiovascular disease also elevate the risk of PVD.
Seeking Expert Guidance

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with Peripheral Vascular Disease or have risk factors predisposing you to the condition, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation promptly. Consulting a qualified healthcare professional, such as Dr. Preethi Mrinalini, the esteemed female surgeon known for her expertise in vascular surgery in Chennai, can provide personalised guidance and treatment options.
Dr. Preethi Mrinalini, renowned for her commitment to patient care and surgical excellence, emphasises the importance of early detection and management of PVD to prevent complications and improve quality of life. With her extensive experience and compassionate approach, she ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care tailored to their unique needs.