The Long Run

Studies suggest that the incidence of Peripheral Vascular Disease is on the rise in India. Most such cases remain undiagnosed,say doctors

Studies suggest that the incidence of Peripheral Vascular Disease is on the rise in India. Most such cases remain undiagnosed,say doctors

While walking or exercising ,if the legs hurt ,many of us would say we are tired. But experts are of a different opinion. They warn it might be a leg attack deep under the skin. Observing World Vascular Day on August 6,Dr Jagdish Hiremath,Director Cath Lab,Ruby Hall Clinic,said,Lack of awareness about signs and symptoms delays timely medical attention to peripheral vascular disease that ultimately may lead to amputation and even death. As per a report 98% of cases remain undiagnosed because of unawareness.

Short supply of blood because of blockage in arteries leads to pain or cramps in legs while walking or exercising. This is known as Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) and awareness about risk factors that lead to narrowing or blocking of arteries can help prevent or treat it early.

Studies have reported that PVD prevalence is around 10 per cent among Indians,especially those above 40. With diabetes and heart disease rising sharply,PVD cases are expected to peak in Indians. A study predicts 65 lakh cases of PVD per year in India,much more than comparative regions like China,Taiwan and South Korea.

High cholesterol ,smoking ,hypertension and diabetes are the major risk factors. Preventive steps start with exercise and a healthy diet along with controlled blood pressure and sugar.

If there is pain ,weakness,numbness or cramping in the leg that goes away after three to five minutes of rest,it is a sign of PVD. Other symptoms are non healing ulcer or gangrene, said Hiremath. In case of any symptoms medical attention and investigation is suggested. Medical treatment in case of severe symptoms like non healing ulcers ,gangrene ,severe blockages and narrowing in blood vessels of legs is angioplasty or very occassionaly bypass grafting, he added.

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