Peripheral Vascular Disease
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) is another very common vascular
disorder. It will affect up to 20% of Americans age 65 or
greater. It is also known as
Peripheral
Arterial Disease (PAD) or just hardening of the arteries.
The most common symptoms of PVD is claudication or a cramping
feeling in the calf muscles when walking. The pain resolves
rather quickly with resting. Other people describe a 'heavy'
or 'tired' feeling in the legs. There are medications such as
aspirin or
Plavix which can reduce the symptoms, but if it is severe then a
bypass type operation may be needed. The most helpful
treatment is to increase your activity and reduce your LDL
cholesterol. PVD is diagnosed by a test called the
ABI that checks the blood pressure in the legs.
The Vascular Disease
Foundation has a very helpful web site. With information about Intermittent
Claudication. The
American Heart Association provides expert information.
If you are having any signs of PAD call 227-6363 to make an
appointment with
one of our doctors for an examination.