Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) Month – September 2024

With Peripheral Vascular Disease or PVD, Detection Needs to be PDQ

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) refers to any disease or disorder of the circulatory system outside of the brain and heart. PVD is caused by arteriosclerosis, which is a buildup of plaque in the blood vessels. This plaque can lead to blood clots and limit the amount of oxygen that reaches the arms and legs. PVD can cause pain and discomfort, especially when walking.

According to the American Heart Association, the number of people with PVD in the U.S. is estimated to be between seven to 12 million, which is more than the number of people living with cancer, stroke, and Alzheimer's combined.

September is PVD Awareness Month, a time earmarked to educate the public about the risks, symptoms, and preventive measures related to PVD. The awareness month emphasizes the importance of early detection, which is crucial for managing the disease effectively and preventing serious complications.

Key risk factors for PVD include smoking, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, a sedentary lifestyle, high cholesterol, and a family history of cardiovascular disease. Individuals with these risk factors are encouraged to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms such as leg pain when walking, cold feet, or sores that do not heal.

“PVD is a manageable condition, especially if caught early,” said Yazan Khouri, M.D, anInterventional Cardiologist at Palestine Medical Group. “That’s why people with risk factors should be highly aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention should they appear. Left untreated, PVD can lead to gangrene, tissue death, and ultimately, the loss of a limb.”

Treatments for PVD typically include procedures to widen the arteries, medications to reduce fatty deposits in the blood vessels, and lifestyle changes like weight loss, smoking cessation, and exercise.

“PVD Awareness Month should remind all of us ‒ even if we don’t have risk factors ‒ of the importance of regular check-ups and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet and regular exercise,” said Dr. Khouri. “Cardiologists like myself would rather see you in the gym than in my exam room or the operating room.”

If you have risk factors and suffer symptoms that might indicate you have PVD, click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Khouri or call 903.731.0509.