5 Simple Ways to Manage Peripheral Vascular Disease

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) affects over 230 million people worldwide, yet few understand what it is and how to manage it. 

Our expert team of neurologists at Advanced Medical Care in Queens and Brooklyn, New York, is here to help demystify PVD. Whether you've just been diagnosed or want to take proactive steps, these tips will empower you to take control of your vascular health.

What is peripheral vascular disease?

Peripheral vascular disease, sometimes called peripheral artery disease (PAD), occurs when blood vessels outside the heart and brain narrow or become blocked, reducing blood flow to vital areas like your legs and feet. This decreased circulation can lead to leg pain during exercise (intermittent claudication), numbness, or slow-healing wounds.

The primary cause is atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in your arteries, restricting blood flow. Smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can increase your chances of developing PVD.

If left unmanaged, PVD can lead to severe complications, including infections, gangrene, or even limb amputation. Fortunately, making small but impactful lifestyle changes can stop its progression.

1. Quit smoking 

Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for PVD. Tobacco damages your blood vessel walls, reduces oxygen flow, and accelerates plaque buildup, worsening symptoms and increasing the risk of complications.

Why it helps

Within a few weeks of quitting smoking, your circulation improves. Over time, quitting significantly reduces the risk of developing severe complications.

What you can do

• Use nicotine replacement therapies
• Join smoking cessation programs or apps to help you kick the habit
• Talk to us about medications to manage nicotine cravings

We offer several IV treatments that can keep you energized and healthy as you give up nicotine. 

2. Move your body regularly

It may seem counterintuitive to move when PVD makes walking painful, but regular, supervised physical activity can be one of the most effective ways to improve circulation.

Why it helps

Exercise encourages the development of new blood vessels around blocked arteries, improving blood flow and reducing PVD symptoms like leg pain.

What you can do

• Begin with short walks, gradually increasing your time and pace
• Incorporate low-impact exercises such as cycling or swimming
• Consider joining a supervised rehabilitation program tailored for PVD patients

Our experienced physical therapists can guide you toward activities and routines you’ll enjoy and maintain. 

3. Adopt a heart-healthy diet

Nutrition plays an essential role in managing PVD. A balanced, low-fat diet can prevent further plaque buildup and improve your overall cardiovascular health.

Why it helps

Healthy fats and antioxidants reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and encourage smoother blood flow.

What you can do

• Add more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to your diet
• Limit salty foods 
• Add omega-3-rich foods like salmon or walnuts 

It’s true — you are what you eat. Paying more attention to your diet can boost blood vessel health.

4. Drop those extra pounds

Losing weight feels good and looks great, but it also impacts your overall vascular health. 

Why it helps

 A healthy weight relieves stress on your vascular system, increases blood circulation, and reduces inflammation.

What you can do

• Set achievable weight goals with the help of a nutritionist or fitness coach
• Routinely track your weight and cardiovascular metrics (e.g., blood pressure)
• Visit us regularly to assess your vascular health and adjust your treatment plan

Taking proactive steps to manage weight and engaging in consistent medical checkups can keep PVD well under control.

5. Try glutathione IV treatment for better circulation

When it comes to enhancing blood flow and combating the oxidative stress caused by PVD, glutathione IV therapy presents an innovative option. Known as the “master antioxidant,” glutathione supports blood vessel function and improves vascular health.

Why it helps

Glutathione reduces oxidative damage in blood vessels, encouraging smoother circulation. It also alleviates leg pain and inflammation.

What you can do

• Schedule a consultation to learn if glutathione IV treatment is right for you
• Discuss how this noninvasive therapy fits into your overall treatment plan
• Watch your vascular health improve exponentially

At Advanced Medical Care, we offer state-of-the-art glutathione IV treatments as part of our commitment to helping you manage PVD.

Peripheral vascular disease doesn’t have to keep you sidelined. By quitting smoking, prioritizing exercise, adopting a heart-healthy diet, discovering advanced options like glutathione IV treatments, and staying on top of regular monitoring, you can manage your condition and enjoy your health and your life.

Call Advanced Medical Care, or book online to discuss your PVD treatment options and how glutathione IV therapy fits into your overall wellness plan.