5. Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)
What It Is
Peripheral Vascular Disease occurs when blood vessels in the limbs narrow or become blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). While it mainly affects arteries, it can also disrupt venous circulation.
To compensate for poor blood flow, the body may make surface veins more visible.
Symptoms
Cold or numb limbs
Leg pain while walking (claudication)
Weak or absent pulses in the feet
Shiny, thin skin on the legs
Slow-healing sores or ulcers
Why It Matters