Difference between PAD & DVT and Why It Matters

PAD vs DVT: Understanding the Differences in Vascular Conditions

Sometimes leg pain is just from fatigue or exercise, but if it is ongoing and you are seeking a medical assessment of your leg pain causes, you may learn that it is a vascular problem. Poor circulation can cause a variety of issues, including varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, but two conditions that are often misunderstood are PAD and DVT. Part of this confusion is that DVT is a type of PVD, and all of these conditions are progressive and have to do with limited blood flow. When doctors toss around initials, it can seem unclear, but here’s what you need to know. PVD is Peripheral Vein Disease, PAD is Peripheral Artery Disease, and DVT is Deep Vein Thrombosis, a type of vein disease. Let’s dig into this a little further.

What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

A progressive vascular condition, PAD involves the narrowing of the arteries, particularly those arteries that supply blood to the lower extremities. PAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, in which a buildup of plaque inside the arteries reduces blood flow, reducing the amount of oxygen and nutrients that are delivered to the legs and feet. PAD causes leg pain, including cramping, aching and fatigue, which gets worse with exercise and better with rest. Other symptoms include numbness or coldness in the legs and feet, sores or ulcers on the feet that are slow to heal, skin color changes or shiny skin, and hair loss on the legs and feet. People who smoke, have diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, or a family history of vascular issues are at an increased risk of PAD.

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?

With DVT, a blood clot forms within a deep vein, usually in the legs. This can be very serious, as the blockage can dramatically restrict blood flow. DVT is caused by sluggish blood flow in the veins, often due to prolonged inactivity, like extended bed rest or a long flight. It can also be the result of damage to the inside of a vein, due to surgery or trauma, or excessive blood clotting caused by genetic factors or certain medications. DVT causes swelling, pain or tenderness, and warmth in the affected leg, and the skin may become red or discolored. You are at an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis if you have recently had surgery or an injury, have had an extended period of inactivity, have certain medical conditions that include cancer and heart disease, or are taking medications like birth control pills or hormone therapy. Interestingly, if you have PAD, you are at a higher risk of DVT.

PAD vs DVT: Key Differences in Vein vs Artery Disease

PAD, PVD, and DVT are all vascular conditions, and they share some risk factors. However, there are key differences between them. PVD and DVT are vein issues, and the veins are the blood vessels responsible for returning deoxygenated blood to the heart. PAD is an arterial condition, affecting the vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Aside from the difference in vessels, there are some other important distinctions between PAD and DVT:

Cause: PAD is caused by narrowed arteries, while DVT is the result of a blood clot forming within a vein.
Pain: PAD causes cramping and aching during exercise, while DVT causes constant pain, even at rest.
Temperature: PAD causes the limb to feel cold because of reduced blood flow, while DVT causes warmth from inflammation.
Skin Color: In PAD, the skin may look pale, blue, or shiny, while DVT causes skin to be red or discolored.
Danger: PAD, left untreated, can result in critical limb ischemia (CLI), in which the arteries are severely blocked. This can lead to chronic pain, non-healing ulcers, gangrene, and limb amputation. PAD is also a risk factor for heart attack and stroke. DVT can lead to a pulmonary embolism, in which a clot breaks free and travels to the lungs, causing life-threatening obstruction to blood flow.

When to Seek a Vascular Diagnosis

Fortunately, both PAD and DVT can be successfully treated by a vascular health specialist, often through the use of minimally invasive procedures. Since each of these conditions can lead to potentially life threatening issues, it is important that you see a specialist if you suspect you are experiencing PAD or DVT. If you have any of the symptoms listed above, make an appointment to have your vascular health assessed.

For an Expert Evaluation of Your Vascular Health, Contact ReVaMP Heart & Vascular

Identifying vascular issues early plays a crucial role in achieving successful outcomes and preventing more serious health complications. At ReVaMP Heart & Vascular Institute, our experienced physicians are committed to treating a broad range of cardiovascular conditions through advanced technologies, cutting-edge procedures, and a patient-focused approach. Since 2021, we have proudly served patients across the Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey regions, emphasizing preventative care treatment options that promote long-term well-being. Our team provides expert care in coronary, structural, peripheral arterial, and venous interventions—each designed to improve quality of life and restore health.

With every patient, we take a personalized approach—carefully listening to their concerns and designing a treatment plan that aligns with their unique needs. Meet our team of specialists and explore how we deliver modern, compassionate cardiovascular care.

For additional information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.