Peripheral Vascular Disease

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a circulation disorder that occurs when there’s a decline in blood flow to any body part other than your heart or brain. At Parto Heart & Vascular in Los Angeles and Newport Beach, California, interventional cardiologist Parham Parto, MD, MPH, FACC, specializes in diagnosing and treating peripheral vascular disease. Call the office most convenient to you or book an appointment online today.

What should I know about peripheral vascular disease?

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a progressive circulation disorder characterized by a decline in blood flow in the body due to narrowing or blockages in the blood vessel. PVD may involve any blood vessel outside the heart and brain, including arteries and veins.

However, it most often affects the arteries in the legs. The circulation problem usually occurs from a buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis). But you can also develop PVD following an injury or infection.

How do I know if I have peripheral vascular disease?

Only a medical professional like Dr. Parto can determine if you have peripheral vascular disease. Your risk of developing PVD increases as you get older. Having a personal history of coronary artery disease (CAD) or a family history of PVD, hypertension, or high cholesterol also puts you at risk.

Peripheral vascular disease is a progressive condition, and you may not have any signs or symptoms until you have severe narrowing. Painful leg cramping during exercise is the most common early symptom of PVD. 

If you’re at risk of PVD or have leg pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Parto for an evaluation.

What can I expect during an evaluation for peripheral vascular disease?

You can expect a comprehensive and patient-focused exam during your peripheral vascular disease evaluation at Parto Heart & Vascular. Dr. Parto reviews your personal and family health histories, asks about symptoms, and performs a physical exam.

He also has you undergo tests to confirm or rule out PVD, such as an ankle brachial index (ABI) to compare blood pressure in the arm and leg or a vascular ultrasound to look for narrowing or blockage in your blood vessels. 

Dr. Parto may also perform a computed tomography (CT) angiography, an imaging test that uses a special dye to highlight blood vessels.

What are the treatments for peripheral vascular disease?

Dr. Parto customizes your peripheral vascular disease treatment plan based on the cause, severity, and location of your circulation problem. He takes a comprehensive approach, and your plan may include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Medication to improve cholesterol or blood pressure
• Medications to prevent or treat blood clots

Dr. Parto may also recommend a catheter-based procedure such as an angioplasty or atherectomy to open up the blood vessel and improve circulation.

Call Parto Heart & Vascular today or use the online booking button to schedule a consultation.