PERIPHERAL VASCULAR DISEASE (PVD)

INTRODUCTION

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD) , is a circulatory condition that affects blood vessels outside the heart and brain , typically involves narrowing or blockage of the arteries that supply blood to the legs, arms , kidneys and abdomen. PVD is often caused by atherosclerosis , a condition where fatty deposits (plaques) build up in the arteries , reducing blood flow.

    CAUSES

• Smoking : Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of plaque formation.
• High cholesterol : Elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to the buildup of plaques in the arteries.
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Family history
• Age
• Other factors such as inflammation , genetic factors and certain medical conditions .

SYMPTOMS

• Muscular weakness
• Claudication : Pain, cramping or tiredness in the legs or buttocks during activity (walking or climbing stairs).
• Numbness
• Hair loss on the legs
• Slow – healing wounds and ulcers
• Coldness : The affected limb may feel cold to the touch.
• Changes in skin color : appear pale or bluish
• Gangrene : In severe cases , reduced blood flow can lead to tissue death, resulting in gangrene which may require amputation.

According to Ayurveda PVD

• Ayurveda considers peripheral vascular disease (PVD) to be related to an imbalance in the body’s Doshas , particularly Vata Dosha .
• Ayurvedic treatment for PVD focuses on restoring the balance of vata dosha through dietary changes , lifestyle modifications , herbal remedies and therapies Abhyanga  and detoxification (Panchakarma)
• Herbal Remedies
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
• Turmeric (Curcuma longa )
• Garlic (Allium sativum)
• Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)
• Guggul (Commiphora wightii)

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ayurvedic Management

• Panchakarma
• Vaman
• Virechan
• Basti
• raktamokshan