Cardiovascular Diseases: PAD vs PVD

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD), their causes, symptoms, treatments, and diagnostic methods.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Condition caused by narrowed arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to extremities.

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)

Condition caused by narrowed veins, resulting in blood pooling in extremities.

Hydration and Blood Flow Importance

Maintaining hydration is important for blood flow and to minimize complications from PAD and PVD.

Ankle-Brachial Index

A diagnostic test comparing ankle blood pressure to arm blood pressure; lower ankle pressure indicates poor blood flow.

Claudication

Intermittent sharp pain in the calf during activity or elevation, relieved by rest.

Antiplatelets

Medications like Aspirin or Clopidogrel that help prevent blood clots.

Elevating legs in PVD

Helps promote blood return to the heart; important in treatment strategy.

Danger of Dangling Legs

Dangling legs can worsen pain and edema by hindering circulation.

Compression Stockings

Used in treatment for PVD to promote blood return and reduce swelling.

Signs of ischemia in PAD

Dry, thin skin; shiny appearance; decreased pulses; and pain in the extremities.

Causes of PAD and PVD

Hypertension, hyperlipidemia, uncontrolled diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and aging.

Skin Changes in PAD

Pale and cool skin with absent pulses, indicating insufficient blood flow.

Skin Changes in PVD

Brown/yellow and warm skin with present pulses and edema due to blood pooling.

Lesions in PAD

Characteristics are eschar and necrosis on the digits.

Lesions in PVD

Shallow and irregular shaped wounds with red granulation and drainage.