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Prevention of Peripheral Vascular Disease in Old Age People

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Peripheral vascular disease is a gradually progressing circulatory disorder that causes blockage or narrowing of the blood vessels due to plaque deposition.

Written byDr. Ruchika Raj

Medically reviewed byDr. Isaac Gana

Published At December 15, 2022
Reviewed AtNovember 10, 2025

Introduction:

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) or peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a gradually progressing circulatory disorder that results in blockage or narrowing of the blood vessel walls due to the deposition of plaque-like material. Narrowing the artery walls drastically affects blood circulation to various organs like the heart, brain, and extremities (upper and lower). Peripheral vascular disease also affects the arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels outside the heart. The blockage or narrowing of the arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels drastically affects the functioning of different organs. The buildup of these plaque-like substances (made of fat, cholesterols, etc.) in the artery wall is referred to as arteriosclerosis. The upper and lower extremities are most commonly affected by peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or peripheral vascular disease (PVD). The reduction in the blood supply to different body organs deprives them of the nutrition and nourishment required to function normally, thereby resulting in damage or death of the affected organ.

Who Is Considered to Be at Risk of Peripheral Arterial Disease?

A high risk of PAD is observed among the following. These include

  • Older People: People aged 65 years and above are considered to be at higher risk.

  • Individuals With Systemic Disease: Individuals suffering from systemic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol are found to be at greater risk. People with previous heart conditions like coronary artery disease are at risk of peripheral arterial disease.

  • Race and ethnicity: African American individuals were found to be at higher risk of PAD. It was noted that American Indian women were found to be at higher risk of PAD. Another finding was that Hispanics, Latino people, and White people were found to have a higher risk of PAD.

  • Gender: Women were found to have a higher risk of PAD when compared to men.

What Are the Risk Factors For Peripheral Arterial Disease?

Risk factors can help in developing PAD. These include:

  • Cigarette Smoking: Smoking can cause atherosclerosis. It was found that smoking is the main cause of half of the cases of PAD. Tobacco use is considered to be the most important risk factor.

  • Diabetes Mellitus: Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for PAD. It was found that Patients affected by diabetes mellitus exhibit two folds of increased prevalence for PAD when compared to the general population.

  • Hypertension: Hypertension was found to be linked with the development of atherosclerosis.

  • Dyslipidemia: An abnormal balance between good and bad cholesterol levels without much change in the cholesterol level range is called dyslipidemia. This condition may predispose to atherosclerosis.

  • Increased Plasma Homocysteine Levels: Higher plasma homocysteine levels may lead to atherosclerosis.

  • Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is found to be associated with dyslipidemia. This dyslipidemia was found to be a risk factor for PAD.

  • Coexistence of Other Atherosclerotic Disorders: It was found that PAD is associated with atherosclerotic disorders. A study noted that PAD is coexistent with coronary artery disease (CAD) and prior ischemic stroke.
  • Cardiovascular Morbidity and Mortality: It was noted from research that individuals with PAD were found to have an increased risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and cardiovascular events. Another study suggested that PAD can be linked to silent myocardial ischemia. It was also noticed that 69 percent of individuals with PAD had developed new events related to heart. A study noticed that mortality in eight large percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) exhibited higher rates of post-PCI death and myocardial infarction (MI).

How to Prevent Peripheral Vascular Diseases in Older People?

For preventing peripheral vascular disease in the older age group, the main focus should be the reduction of the risk of cardiac diseases like stroke or heart attacks and lifestyle changes.

The factors such as, early diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle modifications, can help fight against peripheral vascular disease effectively. These help prevent the disease from worsening. Various methods help in the prevention and treatment of peripheral vascular disease. These include:

  1. Lifestyle Modifications: A few alterations can be brought in the daily lifestyle can help reduce the risk of peripheral vascular diseases. Changes in the lifestyle that can be taught are:

  2. Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products: Avoid tobacco products and smoking. Nicotine or smoking cessation centers in the locality can be joined to quit the habit in case of addiction. Nicotine replacement chewing gums and candies can help in quitting the habit steadily.

  3. Healthy and Balanced Diet: Avoid fatty foods and trans fats that are high in cholesterol. If you are obese, try shedding some weight with regular yoga and exercises. Inculcate green leafy vegetables and fruits into the diet. Minimize daily sodium intake. A dietician can help you make a proper diet plan based on your body mass index and health condition.

  4. Exercise: Regular daily exercise, like walking and yoga, helps to reduce pain in the lower extremities and body aches.

  5. Minimize Stress Levels: Stress has increased dramatically in today's society. Try minimizing stress by practicing morning meditations and yoga.

  6. Management of Underlying Disease: If you have underlying systemic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, see a doctor immediately for early diagnosis and management of the underlying disease.

Pharmacological Management: The doctor prescribes a few medications to treat the underlying conditions like:

  • Hypertension: High blood pressure is common among the older age group. The doctor prescribes anti-hypertensive medications to control hypertension.

  • Cardiac Stroke: The risk of cardiac stroke and heart attack can be minimized with antiplatelet medications like Aspirin and Clopidogrel under the doctor's supervision.

  • Claudication: Medications like Cilostazol are prescribed by the doctor to patients with pain while walking.

  • Exercise Programs: Supervised exercise programs help improve symptoms of peripheral vascular diseases, such as claudication (pain in the lower extremities while walking). Patients with peripheral vascular disease are advised to walk for at least 30 to 60 minutes until the mild pain starts and to stop or relax until the pain resolves. They are asked to walk again after the pain resolves. These exercise programs are called “Start-Stop” exercises.

Surgical Management: Different surgical interventions that are done to treat a peripheral vascular disease are:

  1. Angioplasty: The cardiac surgeon performs balloon angioplasty in patients with peripheral vascular disease. This technique inserts a balloon catheter into the arteries to expand the arterial walls, improving blood circulation to the affected organs. Laser angioplasty procedures burn or vaporize the accumulated plaque in the arterial walls and clear the blockage. The doctor recommends an angiogram before performing the angioplasty procedure.

  2. Cardiac Stents: Cardiac stents are small metal stents that are of tube shaped devices. These are placed inside the artery to expand the arterial walls to restore blood circulation.

  3. Cardiac Bypass Surgery: This procedure involves a graft that is placed to reroute the blood circulation. A segment of a healthy vein or a synthetic material are used as a graft in the procedure to create a bypass for blood circulation.

  4. Atherectomy: A plaque or cholesterol buildup in the blood vessels are removed by using a catheter with a blade or a laser on its end. This procedure helps improve the blood circulation in the affected organs by opening the blocked arteries.

What Are the Complications of Peripheral Vascular Disease Treatment?

A few complications may be observed after the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. These include:

  • Shortness of breath may be observed.

  • Feel dizziness (losing balance).

  • Experience pain in the chest.

  • Pain, bleeding and swelling can be seen where the catheter was inserted into the skin.

  • Abdominal pain may occur.

  • Delay or poor wound healing may be observed.

  • Experience fever or chills.

Conclusion:

Peripheral arterial disease has become a common problem in the older population. Peripheral vascular disease can lead to various symptoms like leg pain while walking, non-healing foot sores, tiredness, and color changes in the toes and feet. Early diagnosis and treatment of the condition are crucial to preventing and treating peripheral vascular disease. Various prevention techniques like lifestyle modifications, medical management of the systemic conditions, stress reduction, start or stop exercises, and management of the underlying disease help prevent peripheral vascular disease. It also prevents worsening symptoms in patients with peripheral arterial disease.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Peripheral artery disease is a condition that can cause pain and discomfort in the legs. Common warning signs include leg pain when walking, cramping, numbness, and discoloration of the feet. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see your doctor.
Peripheral vascular disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. It is caused by decreased blood flow to the legs and feet, leading to pain, numbness, and tissue damage. If left untreated, it can lead to infection and even gangrene. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing complications.
Peripheral artery disease is best treated with lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Medications such as cholesterol-lowering drugs and blood pressure medications may also be prescribed. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Peripheral vascular disease  (PAD) is a serious condition caused by the narrowing of arteries that supply blood to the limbs. While there is no cure, lifestyle changes including quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
At-home testing for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is possible with a simple test called the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI). It measures the ratio between the blood pressure in the ankle and the arm to determine if there is an obstruction in the arteries. ABI testing is painless and easy to do at home.
Vascular disease is treated with lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery. Lifestyle changes include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking. Medications can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Surgery may be needed to repair a damaged artery.
Vascular disease is treated with lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery. Lifestyle changes include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking. Medications can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Surgery may be needed to repair a damaged artery.
Yes, walking can help improve the symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD). Regular, moderate exercise can help improve blood flow, reduce leg pain and improve overall health. Walking can also help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
PAD, or Peripheral Artery Disease, is a condition where the arteries become narrowed due to plaque buildup. It can start at any age, but is most common in people over the age of 50. Risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes can increase the likelihood of developing PAD.
Vitamin B12 is believed to be the best vitamin to help treat Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). It is important to maintain a healthy diet and take supplements to ensure adequate B12 levels. Vitamin B12 helps improve circulation, supports healthy blood vessels, and reduces inflammation.
Recovery from peripheral vascular disease (PVD) can take from weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment typically includes lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, as well as medications and surgery. Exercise, physical therapy, and proper nutrition are also important for recovery.
Peripheral vascular disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels outside of the heart and brain. While it can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications, it is a lifelong condition that requires regular monitoring and care.
Peripheral vascular disease can cause death if left untreated. The disease can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the body's organs, resulting in organ failure. Treatment is important to prevent the progression of the disease and to reduce the risk of death.
PAD or peripheral artery disease, is a condition that affects blood flow to the legs. In the end stage of PAD, clogged arteries can cause severe pain, slow wound healing, and even tissue death. If left untreated, it can lead to gangrene and amputation. Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery.
Turmeric is a commonly used Indian spice that may offer health benefits for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Studies suggest that turmeric may help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, both of which may help reduce the risk of PAD-related complications. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits.
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Dr. Isaac Gana from iCliniq
Dr. Isaac Gana

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