Peripheral vascular disease (also known as peripheral arterial disease) starts when artery walls become lined with fatty deposits. Plaque made of cholesterol, calcium, and scar tissue may build up and prevent blood circulation in arteries that lead to the legs and feet, kidneys, brain, arms, stomach, and intestines.

Smoking, obesity, diabetes, inactive lifestyle, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a family history of heart disease are all risk factors for peripheral vascular disease. Only half the people with the disease have symptoms. The most common symptoms are associated with the legs and include:

• Pains, aches, cramps, or fatigue in the leg muscles after walking
• Cold or numbness sensation
• Non-healing sores
• Blue colored skin on feet or toes

Those who are diagnosed with peripheral vascular disease can be treated with lifestyle changes, medication, or both. A few recommended lifestyle changes include:

• Quit smoking
• Control diabetes
• Control blood pressure
• Stay active

If you experience any of these symptoms in your leg, foot, arm, or hand, contact the UI Heart and Vascular Center at 319-356-7102.