WHAT IS PDV?
Does you leg hurt or become cramped while you walk or climb stairs? When you stop to rest, the pain may go away, but it comes back when you start to move again.
This pain cycle is called Intermittent Claudication. It can be a sign of peripheral vascular disease, or PVD (also known as “Poor circulation”). With PVD, the vessels that carry blood to your lower body become narrowed or blocked. This makes it harder for blood to reach your leg. If PVD is not treated, leg and foot tissue may die. This is called gangrene and may lead to amputation. You can help avoid such problems by working with your doctor.

Footnote
PVD can raise your risk of frostbite. Keep your feet warm and dry in winter.

WHAT CAUSES PVD?
As you age, your blood vessels may become damaged. Plaque (a buildup of fat and other materials) may collect along the inner walls of the blood vessels. The plaque can narrow or block your blood vessels.

A HEALTHY VESSEL
A healthy vessel allows blood to flow freely. Blood carries oxygen to the muscles. During activity, more oxygen is needed so more blood flows through the vessel. Leg tissue stays healthy if it receives enough blood.

A NARROWED VESSEL.
Plaque buildup reduces blood flow. Muscle tissue does not get enough oxygen- rich blood. Leg muscles may cramp during activity. Cramping may go away with rest, then return when activity resumes.

A BLOCKED VESSEL.
Severe plaque buildup does not allow blood to flow. Leg muscles become oxygen-starved . Tissue begins to die. Muscles may cramp, even at rest. Night pains are common during this stage.

NOTE: Blockage can occur in more than one vessel in your leg.