When should I seek medical care for PVD?

When should I seek medical care for PVD?

Generally, peripheral vascular disease is not an emergency, however, it should not be ignored. A medical evaluation of your symptoms and effective treatment, if indicated, may prevent further damage to your heart and blood vessels. Early intervention may prevent more drastic events such as a heart attack or stroke or loss of toes and feet.

If you have any of these symptoms, along with any of the following, seek emergency medical care:

• Pain in the chest, upper back, neck, jaw, or shoulder
• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Sudden numbness, weakness, or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden dizziness, difficulty walking, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Do not try to “wait it out” at home. Do not try to drive yourself. Call 911 right away for emergency medical transport.