Since the seed of future problems is sewn so early on, stopping smoking is vital if the possible complications are to be avoided. Over the years, after stopping smoking the circulation is likely to improve so fewer attacks of pain occur. If someone is thinking of starting smoking then it's a very good reminder to think again. Major surgery may be needed to improve circulation in the leg and sometimes, when the blood supply cannot be restored to a limb, it may need to be amputated. By-pass grafting To be able to walk without pain and to avoid any of the complications of PVD is the goal of treatment.
Daily exercise helps by encouraging the development of a collateral circulation.
These are smaller new blood vessels that grow to try and provide the muscles with the blood supply they need. Patients are advised to walk until the pain occurs, rest until it disappears, and then to walk again. By doing this in regular cycles the distance someone is able to walk before the pain occurs becomes longer. Diet should be adapted to ensure that it is low in fat, and has enough of the anti-oxidant vitamins C and E. Eating five portions of fruit and vegetables each day will help to achieve this. High cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes if present should all be treated to keep them at safe levels so that the risk of further damage to the arteries is reduced.