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LifeWire, a part of The New York Times Company, provides original and syndicated online lifestyle content. Kristie Reilly is a writer and editor in Boston.
Peripheral Vascular Disease Definition of Peripheral Vascular Disease
From Kristie Reilly
Updated November 04, 2008
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
(LifeWire) - Peripheral vascular disease refers to disorders of veins and arteries in areas of the body outside the heart or brain; peripheral artery disease is its most common form -- these two terms are sometimes used interchangeably. In peripheral artery disease, arteries in the legs or arms gradually become blocked over time
(atherosclerosis). Risk factors include high
cholesterol, high blood pressure,
diabetes and (occasionally) infections, blood clots or some autoimmune conditions. Peripheral artery disease may be symptomless or include pain, cramping, coldness or numbness in the legs and sores on legs or feet that won't heal.
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