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Q:
What is Peripheral Vascular Disease?
Answered by
Steven Elias M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
Peripheral Vascular Disease is a global term for “hardening of the arteries”. “Peripheral” refers to the arms and legs but mostly the leg arteries; just as cerebrovascular disease involves the arteries to the brain and cardiovascular disease affects the arteries to the heart.
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Q:
What are the symptoms of Peripheral Vascular Disease?
Answered by
Steven Elias M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
The symptoms are related to lack of oxygen to the muscles and the skin in the legs due to blockages (stenoses) that develop in the leg arteries. The arteries bring the oxygen in the blood to these muscles with each heartbeat. Symptoms can be mild and occur only with walking. Patients experience muscle cramping or tightness with activity that disappears at rest. This is called intermittent claudication. As blockages increase, pain at rest occurs and ultimately ulcers and skin loss occur, as well as possible amputation if not treated.
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Q:
What are the treatments for PVD?
Answered by
Steven Elias M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
Treatment for PVD depends on the location and severity of the artery blockages, balloon angioplasty and stenting are options. At times bypass surgery is needed for more extensive blockages. Healthy habits such as exercise, low fat diets, and non-smoking minimize the risk of developing PVD.
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Q:
What is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
Answered by
Steven Elias M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome generally affects women. It is due to poorly functioning veins in the pelvic area. Most patients have heaviness or fullness in the pelvic area including the vagina, vulva and groin area. Patients may also have pain with intercourse as well as varicose veins in the groin and vulva. In addition, Menstruation may make symptoms worse.
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