Updated: 11/21/23
Are you dealing with peripheral vascular disease? If so, it can cause dangerous symptoms like leg and foot pain that disrupt your daily life. But there is relief—supplements! Our natural health supplements are specifically designed to help those suffering from PVD get relief of their leg pain in a safe, effective way. By optimizing blood flow to the affected areas and providing essential vitamins and minerals for healthy circulation, our supplements can help reduce painful symptoms while strengthening the overall condition of your veins and arteries for improved long-term health. Keep reading to learn more about how our products could be just what you need for comfort while living with this chronic medical disorder.
What is Peripheral Vascular Disease?
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) is a common circulatory problem that affects many people. The condition leads to narrowing and blockage of blood vessels that carry blood to the legs, arms, kidneys, and stomach. This impairment may prevent the organs and tissues from receiving sufficient oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to complications.
Signs of peripheral vascular disease can be subtle at first and worsen gradually. Muscle fatigue, changes in the appearance of skin on the arms and legs, and unusual sensations in the extremities can all signal problems with blood flow. Recognizing signs and addressing them early improves the long-term outlook. Many types of treatments are available including lifestyle changes, medication, surgery, and dietary supplements.
Peripheral Vascular Disease is a serious condition that affects many people. If left untreated, it can lead to life-altering consequences, including amputation and stroke. Take steps today to protect your vascular health.
Types of Peripheral Vascular Disease
Functional PVD
Functional PVD is a temporary form of the condition. It occurs when the blood vessels constrict or narrow due to spasms, usually triggered by cold temperatures, emotional stress, or smoking. The symptoms can occur intermittently and may resolve quickly once the stimulation ceases. They may include numbness, pins and needles, pain, and weakness in the affected area, primarily in the hands and feet. You may also experience skin paleness or bluing. Generally, functional PVD does not cause permanent damage, but if left untreated, it may progress to organic PVD.
Organic PVD
Organic PVD is a more severe form of the disease. It occurs when the blood vessels narrow or block due to physical damage or disease of the vessel wall. There are several types of organic PVD, which include:
Atherosclerosis
This is a plaque buildup that clogs the blood vessels, impairing the blood flow to the limbs. It is the most common form of organic PVD and usually occurs in people with high blood cholesterol, smoking habits, and diabetes.
Thromboembolic Disease
This occurs when a blood clot gets lodged in an artery or vein, causing a blockage.
Buerger’s Disease
This is a rare form of organic PVD that affects the small and medium-sized blood vessels in the arms and legs. It often occurs in young, heavy smokers and may lead to gangrene (death of tissue).
Raynaud’s Disease
This is a condition that causes spasms in the blood vessels, primarily in the hands and feet, resulting in reduced blood flow. Raynaud’s disease often occurs in women and may be triggered by cold temperatures or emotional stress.
Venous Insufficiency
This occurs when the blood vessels in the legs are damaged, leading to poor circulation. It may be caused by prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, or pregnancy.
Peripheral Vascular Disease Symptoms
If you suspect any of these symptoms, book an appointment with a vascular specialist as soon as possible. Proper management can prevent complications and enable you to live a healthy active lifestyle.
Leg Pain
The most common symptom of PVD is leg pain, especially when walking or exercising. The pain may start in the calf and radiate to the thigh and buttock. The pain can be described as a cramping, burning, or aching sensation and can be relieved by rest. If leg pain is experienced, it is recommended to consult a doctor as it may indicate a more severe condition such as poor circulation or blood clots.
Tingling and Numbness
PVD can cause a feeling of tingling or numbness in the legs or arms. It is often described as a pins and needles sensation and can be due to nerve damage resulting from reduced blood flow. This symptom can be coupled with leg pain or weakness and should be handled as a priority medical issue.
Weakness or Fatigue
If your body doesn’t receive sufficient blood flow, it can lead to muscle weakness or fatigue in the legs. You may not be able to engage in physical activities that you could do comfortably before, such as walking long distances or climbing stairs.
Skin Discoloration
When the skin is not receiving sufficient blood flow, the area can turn pale, bluish-gray, or even dark purple. In PVD, this discoloration is often seen in the legs and ankles. Skin color abnormalities can be an indication of serious blood flow issues that require immediate medical attention.
Slow Healing Wounds
Reduced blood flow can cause wounds or sores to heal slowly. People who experience PVD may notice wounds on their feet that do not seem to heal accurately. Additionally, these wounds can become infected and possibly even develop ulcers. This symptom is a reason for one to consult a vascular specialist so that an adequate plan of management can be produced.
Weak Pulses
A weak pulse in the leg or wrist can be an indication of PVD. Your physician might palpate these areas during a physical exam to determine if the pulse is consistent and strong. Weak pulses suggest a problem with blood flow, which if left untreated, will worsen.
Erectile Dysfunction
Men experiencing erectile dysfunction may not know that it could be related to PVD. It is known that the condition of PVD causes insufficient blood flow in arteries, which can lead to erectile dysfunction. In case this is happening to you, consulting a vascular specialist is an essential step to diagnose and treat erectile dysfunction and its underlying causes.
Hair Loss
Like color changes in the skin, PVD can disrupt the proper functioning of hair follicles and lead to hair loss in the lower leg and feet. The reduced blood flow to the area can cause hair to fall out, leaving bald patches on your legs. If you have noticed increased hair loss, it is essential to speak with a vascular specialist.
Ulcers or Sores
PVD can cause ulcers or sores on your legs or feet, primarily if you have poor blood flow to your feet and legs. Ulcers may occur as a result of minor injuries or cuts that fail to heal and remain open, leading to a risk of infections or gangrene. If you have open sores or ulcers that are not healing, visiting a vascular specialist urgently is crucial.
Complications
If left untreated, occlusive forms of PVD can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism. These serious and potentially fatal events happen when a blood clot or too much plaque build-up forms in the blood vessels and cuts off oxygen to vital organs.
Sometimes, though rarely, people may need all or parts of their legs or feet amputated as a result of gangrene.
Finally, walking and overall mobility can become challenging due to numbness, weakness, and/or pain in the legs.
Causes of Peripheral Vascular Disease
PVD happens when blood can’t pass through veins and arteries as it should. Something could be physically blocking the vessel, like a blood clot or fatty plaque. Or, the blood vessel could suddenly become narrow as a result of faulty signals from the brain. And in some people, the walls of the blood vessels become weak and simply can’t move the blood the way they used to. In other words, many things can bring about PVD.
Smoking
Smoking is the leading cause of PVD. It damages the walls of the blood vessels, causing them to become narrow and less flexible. As a result, blood flow to the limbs and organs is reduced, increasing the risk of complications such as heart attacks and strokes. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do to protect your vascular health. Seek support and resources to help you quit.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant risk factor for PVD. It damages the walls of blood vessels, making them more prone to narrowing and blockage. High blood pressure also puts extra strain on the heart and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. To reduce your risk of PVD, work to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress, and taking any prescribed medications.
High Cholesterol
High cholesterol levels can also contribute to PVD. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that can clog the arteries if not managed properly. When cholesterol builds up, it narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to the limbs and organs. To reduce your risk of PVD, work to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. This includes eating a healthy diet that’s low in saturated and trans fats, exercising regularly, and taking any prescribed medications.
Diabetes
People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing PVD. High blood sugar levels can damage the walls of the blood vessels, leading to narrowing and blockages. Over time, this can also lead to nerve damage, which can cause numbness and tingling sensations in the limbs. To reduce your risk of PVD, work to manage your blood sugar levels carefully. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, monitoring your blood sugar levels, and taking any prescribed medications.
Sedentary Lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk of PVD by affecting blood flow and metabolism. If you spend long periods sitting or lying down, circulation can become sluggish, leading to decreased blood flow to the limbs and organs. This puts you at risk of PVD, as well as other cardiovascular diseases. To reduce your risk, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day, such as brisk walking or cycling. This can improve blood flow and support a healthy vascular system.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis, or a buildup of plaque in the arteries, is the major cause of occlusive PVD. When plaque — a sticky substance made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and protein — accumulates in the blood vessels, they become narrow and blood can’t flow through as well.
Injury
Injury to a blood vessel increases the risk for plaque buildup, blood clot formation, and/or loss of function that can lead to peripheral vascular disease. Sometimes injuries are obvious like those that occur during surgery, getting an IV infusion, or having an accident. Others are less obvious. For example, the stress placed on blood vessels from chronically high blood pressure can damage them as well.
Other Causes
Functional PVD encompasses some diseases and syndromes that have nothing to do with plaque buildup, advanced age, or lifestyle choices. Raynaud’s disease, for example, more often affects young women and is triggered by cold and/or emotional stress. Causes and risk factors of other types of PVD include:
- Exposure to cold or very warm temperatures
- Genetics
- Emotional stress
- Certain medications
- Having another disease
How is Peripheral Vascular Disease Diagnosed
Medical History and Physical Examination
The first step in diagnosing PVD is through a thorough medical history and physical examination of the patient. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, family medical history, and lifestyle, such as smoking or exercise habits. Your doctor will also check your vital signs, including your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature. They may also perform a physical exam to check for any physical indications of PVD symptoms.
Ankle-Brachial Index
An ankle-brachial index (ABI) test is another diagnostic test used to diagnose PVD. The test involves measuring the blood pressure in your ankles and comparing it to the blood pressure in your arms. High blood pressure in your ankles could indicate a blockage in your legs’ blood vessels. This test is non-invasive, and you’ll be asked to wear a blood pressure cuff on your arm and ankle while lying down.
Duplex Ultrasound
A duplex ultrasound is a diagnostic test that uses sound waves to evaluate blood circulation in your arteries and veins. During the test, a technician will place a gel on the affected area, and a wand-like device will send sound waves through the skin. The sound waves will bounce back and create a picture of your blood vessels on a computer monitor. This test is non-invasive, and there are no known side effects.
Angiogram
If your doctor requires more sophisticated information about your PVD, they may conduct angiography. This diagnostic test involves injecting dye into your bloodstream through an IV and taking X-rays. The dye will help the doctor see your heart and blood vessels more clearly on the X-ray, to look for blockages or narrowing in the blood vessels. During the procedure, you’ll be given a local anesthetic, and the test could take up to two hours.
CT Scan
A computed tomographic (CT) scan is another diagnostic test that can help to diagnose PVD. During a CT scan, you’ll lie on a table that moves through a donut-shaped machine. The machine will take multiple images of your body, and a computer will merge them to create a detailed image of your blood vessels. During this test, you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.
Can Peripheral Vascular Disease Be Reversed?
While PVD can’t be entirely “cured,” there are treatments available to manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Many interventions focus on reducing the risk factors that contribute to PVD, such as smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Adopting healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can help reduce these risk factors and improve blood flow to the legs and arms.
Can Peripheral Vascular Disease Cause Neuropathy?
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) can cause neuropathy in the limbs of affected individuals. Although the condition is common, early diagnosis and prompt intervention can help alleviate pain and improve overall quality of life. The good news is that neuropathy resulting from PVD is treatable. Therefore, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your physician if you experience any symptoms of either PVD or neuropathy in your limbs.
Treatment for Peripheral Vascular Disease
PVD affects over 200 million people worldwide and the rates are expected to increase as people live longer. Luckily, prompt treatment and lifestyle changes can improve the outlook significantly.
Exercise
The first line of defense for anyone with PVD is exercise. This might seem counterintuitive, but exercise can actually help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day, such as walking, cycling, or swimming. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise routine, and begin slowly and gradually increase your activity level over time.
Lifestyle Habits
Changing your lifestyle habits can also prove to be beneficial in treating PVD. Managing your diet and eating a well-balanced meal can help to improve circulation in your limbs and prevent further damage. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also reduce your risk of developing PVD symptoms. Taking these steps can not only improve PVD symptoms but can also lead to a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Medication
There are several medications that can help manage the symptoms of PVD. These include antiplatelet drugs, which help to prevent blood clots, and vasodilators, which can widen blood vessels and improve blood flow. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to control high blood pressure or cholesterol levels, which can contribute to PVD.
Compression Therapy
For those with PVD, compression therapy can be a great way to improve circulation in the legs and reduce swelling. Compression stockings, for example, are designed to apply pressure to the legs, which can help to push blood up toward the heart. Your doctor can help determine the right level of compression for you.
Angioplasty and Stenting
If PVD has caused significant blockages in the arteries, angioplasty and stenting can be effective treatment options. During angioplasty, a small balloon is inserted into the blocked artery and inflated, which helps to widen the artery and improve blood flow. In some cases, a stent may also be inserted to help keep the artery open.
Surgery
In severe cases of PVD, surgery may be necessary. This can involve a bypass, where a healthy vein is taken from another part of the body and used to bypass the blocked artery, or an endarterectomy, where the inner lining of the artery is removed to improve blood flow.
Supplements for Peripheral Vascular Disease
Supplements can be useful for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. If you take medication or have a health condition of any kind, it’s important to ask your doctor which supplements are safe for you.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10, also called ubiquinone, is a potent antioxidant linked to several health benefits. Research shows that it can be particularly useful for supporting cardiovascular function by potentially lowering blood pressure, improving atherosclerosis, and providing energy to cardiac cells. This coenzyme might also exert a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels and inflammation which in turn could improve diabetic conditions. If you’re already taking medication, it’s especially important to ask your doctor before using COQ10 as they may not interact well. As a supplement, it is recommended to ingest 50 to 200 milligrams of COQ10 at your and your physician’s discretions.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are great for cardiovascular health and improve blood flow in those with PVD. They have anti-inflammatory properties and help lower triglycerides, which can lead to a reduced risk of thrombosis (the formation of blood clots). Omega-3s can be in fish such as salmon or mackerel, or in supplement form.
Vitamin D
Many people with PVD are deficient in vitamin D, which is crucial for healthy bones, immune function, and muscle strength. Supplements can help raise vitamin D levels and improve blood flow in those with PVD.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can limit blood flow. It can also help reduce inflammation in the body. Vitamin E can be in nuts, seeds, and fortified cereals, or in supplement form.
Magnesium
Another supplement that can help with PVD is magnesium. This particular mineral is essential to muscle and nerve function, including smooth muscle function within the walls of your blood vessels. Therefore, adding magnesium supplements to your diet is critical to help you combat peripheral vascular disease. Moreover, you may supplement with vitamin C, an antioxidant that can slow the progression of peripheral vascular disease by keeping your blood vessels healthy and flexible.
Chromium
If you’re looking to improve your PVD symptoms, you need to get more chromium in your diet. Chromium is a trace mineral that assists in helping your body to metabolize carbohydrates and fats. Better metabolic function reduces inflammation, which, in turn, helps to reduce hardening of the arteries that characterizes PVD. How exactly do you get more chromium? Look for a chromium supplement that hits your daily recommended intake.
L-Arginine
L-Arginine is an amino acid that helps your athletic endurance and heart functions. The body produces some on its own and gets more through food, especially meat. In the body, L-arginine acts as a precursor to nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps to relax and widen blood vessels, allowing blood to flow through them more efficiently. As a dietary supplement, take 750mg of L-arginine one to three times daily on empty stomach, or as directed by physician.
L-arginine may be beneficial for some people with cardiovascular issues but harmful for others. For this reason, please consult with your doctor before taking it. If you have liver issues, are taking ACE inhibitors or diuretics and have kidney problems or you recently had a heart attack, you should not take this supplement.
Hesperidin
This supplement, other than boosting your mood and immune system, supports your circulatory health. It contains a chemical found in certain citrus fruits called bioflavonoids. If not directed differently by your doctor, take 500 milligrams of hesperidin twice a day with food and water. If you have a history of low blood pressure and cardiovascular tissue damage do not take this supplement.
Do not take this hesperidin two weeks before surgery. If you are pregnant or nursing, talk to your doctor on the potential issues it might cause.
Nattokinase
Nattokinase is an enzyme that comes from a Japanese food made of boiled soybeans, called natto. This enzyme has protein-digesting effects that helps improve circulation and prevent the formation of blood clots. As a result, studies show that it can help prevent conditions including peripheral vascular disease.
As a dietary supplement, take 100 milligrams of nattokinase one to three times daily, or as directed by a physician. Avoid this product if you are allergic to soy or are taking aspirin, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, blood clotting medication or beta blockers.
Hawthorn Berry Extract
Thanks to its rich phytonutrient content, hawthorn berry extract may exert a protective effect on the cardiovascular system by reducing blood pressure, improving cholesterol and strengthening vessel walls. As a dietary supplement, the regular dosage is 1200mg, twice a day, unless your physician says otherwise. Pregnant women or people on heart medication should avoid hawthorn berry.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea contains antioxidants (polyphenols to be specific) that help support health in lots of different ways. Studies link the compounds in green tea extract to better blood sugar control, lower cholesterol, healthy blood pressure, and weight management. While it makes a beloved beverage, green tea also comes in a powdered extract. As a dietary supplement, take 500mg of green tea extract one to two times daily. Do not use more than 1000mg in a day. Not intended for use longer than 3 months, as prolonged use of high amounts of EGCG (a type of polyphenol) may cause liver or kidney damage.
The Bottom Line
Peripheral vascular disease is a blood circulation disorder that most often results from a blockage in the blood vessels. Fatty plaque or blot clots are common examples of obstructions within veins and arteries. Peripheral vascular disease most commonly affects older adults, especially those who smoke, have diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or any other factor that puts their cardiovascular function at risk. Symptoms progress gradually and often includes fatigue, pain and numbness in the legs. If untreated, a person may lose the ability to walk or develop severe wounds on the legs and feet.
In some cases, rather than an occlusion, wrong signals from the brain or a problem with the blood vessel lining can cause them to become too narrow or remain too dilated. This is functional PVD and can be by other conditions, medications, or genetics.
Lifestyle changes, medication, surgery, and dietary supplements can all be part of the overall treatment plan for peripheral vascular disease. The sooner a person seeks medical help, the better the outcome is likely to be. When it comes to managing PVD, there’s no one magic supplement that can do the job by itself. However, by focusing on specific dietary supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, magnesium, vitamin C, chromium, and CoQ10, you can help to improve your overall health and manage the symptoms of this debilitating condition. Before beginning any supplement regimen, talk to your doctor first, especially if you take other prescription medications. You can take an active role in your health by responsibly supplementing your diet and taking control of your PVD symptoms. So don’t let peripheral vascular disease limit your options. Try adding a supplement regimen to your diet today and see the difference it can make.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease