Peripheral vascular disease

Peripheral vascular disease is also known as peripheral artery disease. The term peripheral in this case relates to the arteries away from the heart, particularly those in the legs and feet.

This condition is the result of the build up of fatty deposits in the inner walls of the arteries. As the build up progresses, there is a gradual decrease in the diameter of the artery, causing reduced blood flow. When there is a decrease in blood supply or blood flow to the peripheral tissues such as the legs and feet, they can become damaged.

Symptoms and characteristics

Typical symptoms of peripheral vascular disease include:

• leg cramps or pain that becomes worse with walking
• weakness, numbness or tingling in the legs and feet
• feet becoming cold and or discoloured.

Workplace adjustments and solutions

In the workplace there are various factors that would greatly assist those with peripheral vascular disease to better manage symptoms. These include:

• avoidance of work involving heavy or strenuous activity
• job roles that allow for rotation between sitting and standing or for regular breaks to be taken
• job roles which limit periods of prolonged standing or walking
• consideration for sick leave if treatment, surgical intervention and recovery is required
• flexible or reduced work hours depending on treatment needs
• avoidance of cold work environments.

There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:

• Allowing time for medical treatment
• Energy to attend work or complete tasks
• Maintaining work pace without tiring
• Managing medication at work
• Managing pain associated with injury or illness
• Managing sensitivity to cold
• Mobility and walking
• Persisting with tasks—physical energy and stamina

References

Fraser, VR, Alexander, W, O’Rourke, RA, Roberts, R, King, SB, Nash, IS & Prystowsky, EN 2007, Hurst’s The Heart, 11^th edn, The McGraw Hill Companies, Texas.

McPhee, SJ, Papadakis, MA & Tierney, LM 2007, Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment, The McGraw Hill Companies, Texas.

MDA Internet 1991-2010, Peripheral Vascular Disease, Reed Group Ltd, Colorado, viewed 14 June 2011, http://www.mdainternet.com.

Virtualmedicalcentre.com 2008, Peripheral arterial disease, Virtual Medical Centre, online, viewed 14 June 2011, http://www.virtualcardiaccentre.com/diseases.asp?did=58&title=Peripheral-Arterial-Disease-(Arteriosclerosis).

Would you like more information?

• Cardio-vascular disorders