Screening for peripheral vascular disease (PVD), which affects 10 million Americans, is so quick and simple, there’s no reason to avoid it. Nonetheless, many people with PVD haven’t been screened and, therefore, are unaware they have the condition. Why? Many seniors, who are at greatest risk for PVD, believe symptoms such as leg pain and cramping are a normal part of aging. The truth is, they aren’t. Walking should be more of a pleasure than a pain at any age.

Left untreated, PVD, which is essentially clogged arteries in the legs, can lead to serious complications. One is gangrene, a condition in which tissue dies due to inadequate blood flow. The lack of blood deprives the tissue of oxygen and other nourishment it needs to survive. In extreme cases, limb amputation becomes necessary.

In addition to a screening, your risk level is determined by the number of times you respond “yes” to the questions below.

• Do you have heart problems, such as high blood pressure, or have you experienced a heart attack or stroke?
• Do you have diabetes?
• Do you have a family history of diabetes or cardiovascular problems?
• Do you have aching, cramping or pain in your legs when you walk or exercise, but the pain subsides when you rest?
• Do you have pain in your toes or feet at night?
• Do you have ulcers or sores on your feet or legs that are slow to heal?
• Do you smoke?
• Are you more than 25 pounds overweight?
• Do you eat fried or fatty foods three times a week or more?
• Do you have an inactive lifestyle?

During an evaluation, a doctor will examine your legs and feet and listen for any abnormal pulses or disruptions in blood flow. Such symptoms could signal blockages in the leg arteries.

If you appear to be at risk for PVD, many treatments are available through Advocate Health Care that will help get you on your feet again. So don’t delay. Ask your physician or see the calendar inside for a PVD screening.