About peripheral vascular disease
Sometimes called peripheral vascular disease, this condition results when one or more of the arteries in the leg become clogged by fatty deposits, which can slow or stop the flow of blood. Risk factors for the disease include age, smoking, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and a family history of peripheral arterial disease or heart disease. The most common symptom is pain that occurs when walking, climbing the stairs or exercising, but goes away with rest.
However, many people with the disease never have symptoms. When detected early, peripheral arterial disease often can be managed with lifestyle changes, including a low-fat diet, regular exercise routine and cessation of smoking. Medications to reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure or thin the blood also may be beneficial.
A variety of new treatments options, including less-invasive surgical procedures, are now being offered at UC Davis to help overcome complications from this from debilitating problem. The UC Davis Vascular Center provides comprehensive care to patients suffering from peripheral arterial disease and other vascular problems, such as aneurysms, vein disorders and other, less common conditions. The center's emphasis on collaboration allows both established and emerging diagnostic and therapeutic methods to be applied, increasing efficiency and reducing risks. The clinical specialties represented at the center include vascular surgery, cardiology, radiology, endocrinology and nephrology.