Introduction

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus that occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). In diabetics, prolonged high blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves, reducing blood flow to the legs and feet. This leads to poor circulation, delayed wound healing, and higher risk of diabetic foot ulcers, infections, and amputation.

Causes of peripheral vascular disease in Diabetics

  • High blood sugar damaging blood vessel walls
  • Atherosclerosis (fatty deposits in arteries)
  • High blood pressure & cholesterol worsening artery narrowing
  • Smoking & obesity increasing vascular risk
  • Nerve damage (neuropathy) masking early warning signs

Signs & Symptoms

  • Leg pain while walking (intermittent claudication)
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in legs/feet
  • Cold feet or pale skin color
  • Non-healing wounds or ulcers on toes and heels
  • Rest pain (pain in legs even while resting) in advanced cases

Complications

If untreated, PVD in diabetics can progress to:

  • Diabetic foot ulcers
  • Serious infections (cellulitis, osteomyelitis)
  • Gangrene (tissue death)
  • Amputation of toes, foot, or leg
  • Increased risk of heart attack and stroke

Diagnosis

  • Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) – simple test comparing blood pressure in arms and ankles
  • Doppler ultrasound – to assess blood flow
  • CT/MR Angiography – detailed imaging of blockages
  • Nerve conduction test and tests to diagnose neuropathy
  • Foot examination for early detection of ulcers and infections

Treatment Options

Medical Management

  • Strict blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol control
  • Medications to improve circulation and prevent clot formation

Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Angioplasty & stenting to open blocked arteries
  • Laser vascular treatments for improved blood flow

Surgical Treatment

Bypass surgery for severe blockages

Diabetic Foot Care

Regular foot checks, custom footwear, wound dressings, and infection control

Prevention Tips for Diabetics

  • Maintain good sugar control (HbA1c < 7%)
  • Quit smoking and alcohol
  • Follow a healthy diabetic diet and exercise regularly
  • Inspect feet daily for cuts, blisters, or color changes
  • Seek vascular specialist care at the earliest sign of leg pain or non-healing wounds

Why Choose Lumina Vein & Vascular Centre?

At Lumina Vein & Vascular Centre, Bangalore, our expert vascular and laser surgeon– provides advanced, minimally invasive treatments for PVD, and diabetic foot complications. With precision techniques, patients recover faster and enjoy long-term vascular health.

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