Peripheral vascular disease (PVD), also known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD), is a condition in which there is a narrowing of the blood vessels outside of the heart.

Many people with PVD do not have any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms and signs do occur, these can include

painful cramping in one or both hips, thighs or calf muscles after certain activities, such as walking or climbing stairs;
leg numbness or weakness;
coldness in the lower leg or foot, especially when compared with the other side; and
sores on the toes, feet, or legs that won't heal.

Other associated signs and symptoms can include a

change in the skin color of the legs,
hair loss or slower hair growth on the feet and legs,
slower growth of toenails,
shiny skin, and
loss of pulse or a weak pulse in the legs or feet.

Cause of peripheral vascular disease

PVD is caused by atherosclerosis, which occurs when plaque builds up on the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the arms and legs. The main risk factor for the condition is tobacco smoking.

Other peripheral vascular disease symptoms and signs

Change in the Skin Color of the Legs
Coldness in the Lower Leg or Foot, Especially When Compared with the Other Side
Hair Loss or Slower Hair Growth on the Feet and Legs
Leg Numbness or Weakness
Loss of Pulse or a Weak Pulse in the Legs or Feet
Painful Cramping in One or Both Hips, Thighs or Calf Muscles After Certain Activities, Such as Walking or Climbing Stairs
Shiny Skin
Slower Growth of Toenails
Sores on the Toes, Feet, or Legs That Won't Heal