Peripheral Vascular Disease

Peripheral Vascular Disease

Many medical conditions affect the network of arteries and veins that carry blood to and from the body’s tissue. Such damage is generally referred to as peripheral vascular disease (PVD).

Compromised peripheral blood supply leads to tissue ischemia (lack of circulation) and tissue hypoxia (lack of oxygen). As the result of those effects, there is a change in microcirculation and occurrence of edema (swelling). Edema further compresses capillaries and aggravates ischemia and loss of sensitivity (neuropathy).

Warning signs of peripheral vascular disease are pain, swelling, skin discoloration, itching and decreased hair. Frequent cold hands and feet, as well as dry flaky skin are usual signs of poor circulation. In such cases little cuts or wounds may not be able to heal in a “normal” period and may turn into “chronic”, frequently complicated with infections and finally to the gangrene of the limb. If left untreated, gangrene progresses and the amputation of extremity (partial or complete) are unavoidable.  See case reports on peripheral vascular disease ulcers below.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is effective in correcting ischemia and hypoxia caused by peripheral vascular disease, promoting microcirculation, reducing swelling and inflammation and directly fighting infection to speed up wound healing.