What is vein disease?
Vein disease includes a group of health issues that affect your veins — the blood vessels that push blood back to your heart and lungs. Some of the prevalent types of vein disease include:
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Phlebitis
- Varicose veins and spider veins
- Ulcers
- Pulmonary embolism
You can develop vein disease in any vein in your body, from your legs and feet to your abdomen, lungs, neck, or head.
What are the warning signs of vein disease?
The symptoms of vein disease vary depending on the specific type of condition and its location. For example, spider veins or varicose veins may only cause superficial symptoms.
However, you might also develop symptoms like:
- Heavy, aching, and tired legs
- Muscle cramping
- Skin discoloration
- Skin texture changes
- Red, itchy, and flakey skin
- Swelling
Vein disease can lead to ulcers or blood clots. You could also experience restless leg syndrome.
How is vein disease diagnosed?
The board-certified vascular surgeons at University Vascular provide comprehensive exams to diagnose and evaluate vein disease. They begin with a conversation about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.
They then examine your body for visible signs of venous disease. They might check your pulse and blood pressure in your ankles and feel for temperature differences in your extremities.
University Vascular also uses ultrasound to visualize your veins. This diagnostic imaging tool helps identify blockages, weakness, clots, and other internal signs of vein disease.
What are the available treatments for vein disease?
University Vascular creates a tailored treatment plan to restore your vascular health. Depending on your needs, your program could include:
Lifestyle adjustments
In mild cases, you can improve your vein health with lifestyle changes. For example, increasing your physical activity, changing your diet, and giving up smoking or tobacco products can significantly enhance your vascular and overall health.
Medication
University Vascular might prescribe medication to improve your circulation or decrease your risk of blood clots. You may also benefit from medication to address other issues like diabetes and kidney disease, which can affect your vascular health.
Minimally invasive procedures and surgeries
University Vascular might recommend a treatment such as sclerotherapy or endovenous laser ablation to address varicose veins. They also offer angioplasty, stenting, and bypass procedures to correct your circulation.
Call University Vascular or make an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and treatment of vein disease.
