Term: Peripheral vascular disease (PVD)
Definition (plain English):
A circulation disorder where narrowed blood vessels reduce blood flow to the limbs.
Examples:
- Atherosclerosis (artery hardening)
- Diabetes-related vascular disease
How it relates to nails:
Poor blood flow can cause slow-growing, brittle, or thickened nails, and increase infection risk.
Confusable with:
Ageing-related nail changes or nail changes from heart and lung disease.
Disclaimer:
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a diagnosis. Always seek medical advice if you are concerned.
