Peripheral Vascular Disease vs. Peripheral Artery Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Written June 22, 2026Encino Vascular Institute

Problems with blood circulation can affect overall health and quality of life. Two vascular conditions that are often confused are Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not exactly the same.

Understanding the differences between these conditions can help patients recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate medical care. At Encino Vascular Institute, our experienced vascular specialists help patients throughout Encino, Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Woodland Hills, Tarzana, Van Nuys, and Studio City receive accurate diagnoses and effective treatment for vascular disease.

What Is Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)?

Peripheral Vascular Disease is a broad term used to describe disorders that affect blood vessels outside the heart and brain. These conditions can involve arteries, veins, or lymphatic vessels and may interfere with normal blood flow.

When circulation becomes restricted, tissues may not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, numbness, or slow-healing wounds.

Common risk factors for peripheral vascular disease include:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Family history of vascular disease
• Aging
• Physical inactivity

Because PVD can affect multiple types of blood vessels, a proper evaluation by a qualified peripheral vascular disease doctor is essential to determine the underlying cause.

What Is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is one of the most common forms of peripheral vascular disease. It specifically affects the arteries, usually in the legs, where plaque buildup narrows the vessels and restricts blood flow.

As circulation decreases, patients may experience discomfort while walking, numbness, weakness, or slow-healing wounds. Left untreated, PAD can increase the risk of serious complications, including limb-threatening ischemia and cardiovascular disease.

Many patients seeking a peripheral artery disease doctor in Encino or in Los Angeles are diagnosed after noticing persistent leg symptoms that interfere with daily activities.

Peripheral Vascular Disease vs. Peripheral Artery Disease: Understanding the Difference

The easiest way to understand the difference is that PAD is a type of PVD.

Peripheral vascular disease refers to a wide range of circulation disorders affecting blood vessels outside the heart and brain. Peripheral artery disease specifically involves narrowed or blocked arteries caused by atherosclerosis.

PVD may affect arteries, veins, or lymphatic vessels, while PAD affects only the arteries. Because PAD reduces oxygen-rich blood flow to the legs, it often causes symptoms during physical activity and may become progressively worse without treatment.

Accurate diagnosis is important because treatment recommendations can vary depending on the type of vascular condition present.

What Causes PVD in Legs?

Many patients ask, “What causes PVD in legs?”

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) develops when blood vessels narrow, become blocked, or are damaged, reducing healthy blood flow to the legs and feet. Over time, poor circulation can cause pain, numbness, slow-healing wounds, and other vascular complications. Several medical conditions and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing PVD.

Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smoking is one of the leading causes of peripheral vascular disease. Chemicals in tobacco damage blood vessel walls, promote plaque buildup, and reduce oxygen delivery throughout the body. Smokers are significantly more likely to develop circulation problems than non-smokers.

Diabetes

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves over time, making it harder for blood to flow properly to the lower extremities. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing PVD and may experience slower wound healing and an increased risk of infection.

High Blood Pressure

Uncontrolled high blood pressure places extra stress on artery walls, leading to vascular damage and narrowing of blood vessels. This can contribute to reduced circulation and increase the likelihood of developing vascular disease.

High Cholesterol

Excess cholesterol can accumulate inside blood vessels and form plaque deposits. As plaque builds up, blood vessels become narrower, restricting blood flow to the legs and increasing the risk of circulation-related symptoms.

Excess Body Weight

Being overweight or obese can increase inflammation, raise blood pressure, and contribute to diabetes and high cholesterol. These factors place additional strain on the vascular system and increase the risk of PVD.

Sedentary Lifestyle

Regular physical activity helps support healthy blood circulation. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to poor vascular health, weight gain, and reduced blood flow, increasing the likelihood of developing vascular disease.

Increasing Age

The risk of PVD naturally rises with age as blood vessels become less flexible and more susceptible to plaque buildup and circulation problems.

Family History of Vascular Disease

Individuals with a family history of vascular disease, heart disease, or stroke may have a higher risk of developing PVD. Genetics can play a role in how blood vessels age and respond to other risk factors.

These conditions and lifestyle factors can lead to inflammation, plaque buildup, and narrowing of blood vessels, making it more difficult for oxygen-rich blood to reach the legs and feet. Early identification and management of these risk factors can help reduce complications and support long-term vascular health.

What Are Three Signs of Peripheral Arterial Disease?

One of the most common questions patients ask is, “What are three signs of peripheral arterial disease?”

The three classic signs include:

Leg Pain While Walking

Also called claudication, this symptom causes cramping or aching in the calves, thighs, or buttocks during activity. The pain often improves with rest.

Numbness or Weakness

Reduced circulation may lead to weakness, tingling sensations, or numbness in the legs and feet.

Slow-Healing Wounds

Cuts, sores, or ulcers on the feet may take longer than normal to heal due to poor blood flow.

Additional symptoms may include:

• Cold feet or toes
• Skin discoloration
• Hair loss on the legs
• Shiny skin
• Weak pulses in the feet
• Changes in toenail growth

Symptoms of Peripheral Vascular Disease

Symptoms of peripheral vascular disease can vary depending on the blood vessels involved.

Common symptoms include:

• Leg pain or cramping
• Swelling in the lower extremities
• Numbness or tingling
• Cold hands or feet
• Skin color changes
• Slow-healing sores
• Fatigue during walking
• Reduced circulation

If symptoms become persistent or worsen over time, patients should seek prompt medical evaluation.

How Are PAD and PVD Diagnosed?

A thorough vascular evaluation is the first step toward effective treatment.

A peripheral vascular doctor will typically begin with a physical examination and review of your medical history. Additional testing may include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
• Doppler ultrasound
• CT angiography
• Vascular imaging studies
• Blood flow assessments

These diagnostic tools help determine the location and severity of circulation problems and guide treatment decisions.

Peripheral Artery Disease Treatment and PAD Treatment Options

Modern peripheral artery disease treatment focuses on improving circulation, reducing symptoms, and preventing complications.

Treatment options may include:

Lifestyle Changes

Healthy lifestyle habits can significantly improve vascular health. Patients are encouraged to:

• Quit smoking
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Follow a heart-healthy diet.
• Stay physically active
• Manage diabetes effectively

Medication Management

Medications may be prescribed to:

• Lower cholesterol
• Control blood pressure
• Reduce blood clot risk.
• Improve circulation

Minimally Invasive Procedures

For more advanced disease, PAD treatment may include:

• Angioplasty
• Stent placement
• Atherectomy
• Catheter-based vascular interventions

These treatments can help restore blood flow with less downtime than traditional surgery.

When Is Peripheral Vascular Surgery Needed?

Some patients develop severe arterial blockages that require advanced intervention.

A peripheral vascular surgery doctor may recommend surgery when patients experience:

• Critical limb ischemia
• Severe circulation impairment
• Non-healing wounds
• Rest pain
• Limb-threatening vascular disease

For patients requiring peripheral vascular surgery in LA, advanced limb-salvage and revascularization procedures may help restore circulation and preserve mobility.

What to Avoid With Peripheral Vascular Disease?

Patients frequently ask, “What to avoid with peripheral vascular disease?” Certain habits can worsen circulation problems and increase the risk of complications. To support vascular health, avoid:

• Smoking and tobacco products – They damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow.
• Long periods of inactivity – Regular movement helps improve circulation in the legs.
• Poor diabetes management – High blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time.
• High-fat and processed foods – These may contribute to plaque buildup and poor circulation.
• Ignoring symptoms – Leg pain, numbness, or slow-healing wounds should be evaluated promptly.
• Skipping follow-up appointments – Regular monitoring helps manage the condition effectively.
• Uncontrolled blood pressure and cholesterol – Both can increase the risk of vascular complications.

Making healthy lifestyle choices and following your treatment plan can help improve circulation and slow the progression of peripheral vascular disease.

When Should You See a Peripheral Vascular Doctor?

Many people dismiss symptoms such as leg pain, numbness, or cold feet as a normal part of aging. However, these signs can indicate an underlying circulation problem that requires medical attention. Seeking care from a peripheral vascular doctor early can help identify vascular disease before it progresses and leads to more serious complications.

You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent leg pain or discomfort, especially during daily activities
• Cramping while walking (claudication) that improves with rest
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or feet
• Cold feet or toes compared to the rest of your body
• Slow-healing cuts, sores, or ulcers on the legs or feet
• Changes in skin color or texture, such as pale, bluish, or shiny skin
• Reduced circulation or a feeling of heaviness in the legs

These symptoms may be associated with peripheral vascular disease or Peripheral Artery Disease, both of which can worsen over time if left untreated. Early diagnosis allows specialists to identify the cause of poor circulation and recommend the most effective treatment plan before significant damage occurs.

Why Choose Encino Vascular Institute for PAD and PVD Treatment?

At Encino Vascular Institute, patients receive care from experienced vascular specialists with extensive training in diagnosing and treating peripheral artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. Our team utilizes advanced diagnostic technology and evidence-based treatment approaches to deliver personalized vascular care for patients throughout Encino and Los Angeles.

Encino Vascular Institute specializes in diagnosing and treating complex vascular conditions through advanced imaging, minimally invasive procedures, and personalized treatment plans designed to improve circulation and long-term vascular health.

If you are experiencing leg pain, numbness, poor circulation, or slow-healing wounds, schedule a vascular evaluation with Encino Vascular Institute.

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