Phases of Vein Disease

If you suffer from spider veins and/or varicose veins, you might think that they are a normal part of life, especially if other members of your family have them as well. But the appearance of these unsightly veins is pointing out that your veins are not functioning properly. In some instances, simple steps can be taken to improve your vein health, but medical intervention could also be necessary. Let’s look at the different phases of vein issues and what can be done at each phase to improve your vein health.

Spider Veins: The appearance of these spider-like veins is due to dilated capillaries near your skin’s surface. While spider veins are harmless and do not require treatment, they can become tender and painful. Wearing compression stockings and keeping an active lifestyle can help with their appearance, but treatment options are also available.

Varicose Veins: These twisting, bulging, rope-like veins are pointing out that you have a big issue with your vein health. Your vein valves have weakened and the blood that should be pushed back up to your heart is pooling in your veins, causing them to bulge. Many people are hesitant to seek medical attention for their veins at this phase if they aren’t experiencing any pain, but delaying treatment can mean an increase in pain and a decrease in quality of life down the road if your vein health continues to deteriorate.

Leg Edema: If your veins aren’t functioning properly, and are left untreated, then your body will have difficulty reabsorbing fluids. These fluids can pool in your legs and cause painful swelling. Keeping your legs elevated can help to relieve pain and swelling; but if your leg edema is cause by vein disease, the only way to eradicate it is by seeking treatment for the underlying issue.

Skin Discoloration: As the blood continues to pool in your legs, it can cause your skin to change color, especially in the lower leg. Your skin can become delicate at this point, injury can more easily occur and healing can take longer.

Leg Ulcers: These occur when venous congestion gets so bad that the blood can’t provide adequate nutrition to the skin, resulting in open sores. A skin injury in one of these areas will heal very slowly or not at all and can be quite painful. If you find yourself in this phase of vein disease, seek treatment as soon as possible to help heal your wounds and prevent them from returning.

As you can see, varicose veins aren’t just an aesthetic issue; if left untreated, unhealthy veins can lead to a variety of issues that will affect your overall health and quality of life. If you are experiencing any of the issues listed above, don’t wait! Contact Dr. Eston Wenger to set up an appointment. Give Dr. Wenger, a call at Premier Surgical Associates of Cleveland, TN, at (423) 472-5423 or click here to request an appointment online.