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New Information on this Condition
Peripheral Vascular Disease, or PVD, is a condition in which the arteries that carry blood to
the arms or legs become narrowed or clogged. This interferes with the
normal flow of blood, sometimes causing pain but often causing no symptoms
at all. The most common cause of PVD is atherosclerosis (often called
hardening of the arteries). Atherosclerosis is a gradual process in which
cholesterol and scar tissue build up, forming a substance called "plaque"
that clogs the blood vessels. In some cases, PVD may be caused by blood
clots that lodge in the arteries and restrict blood flow. Smoking is the
largest risk factor for development of PVD. Lifestyle and dietary habits
contribute as well.
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