Vein Disease Symptoms and Conditions
What is venous insufficiency (vein disease)?
Over 80 million Americans experience the effects of vein disease each year. Vein disease can lead to decreased activity, permanent discoloration, pain, and wounds that will not heal without treatment.
Two of the most common conditions associated with vein disease are varicose veins and spider veins. Know the signs of vein disease so you can be treated and return back to the activities you love.
Signs of vein disease
Fatigued
Varicose veins can cause the legs to feel tired. This symptom worsens throughout the day due to gravity. The weak veins cannot efficiently return the blood back to the heart, therefore they become stretched and dilated. The vein valves will continue to weaken and allow blood to flow backward until properly treated.
Heavy
Damaged veins must work harder to return blood to the heart which causes the pooling of blood. Combined with the force of gravity, legs can feel tired and heavy throughout the day until they are elevated.
Tight
Swollen, visibly enlarged veins are a sign that blood is pooling in the legs. The additional blood prevents excess nutrients, waste, and liquid from escaping the body. This leads to water retention that makes the legs feel tight and uncomfortable.
Wounds
Damaged veins can cause waste products to build up in the skin. This build up can lead to wounds that will not heal. Early signs may be itching and brown patches of staining to the skin.
Restless
An unstoppable urge to move the legs can be a sign of venous disease. Tingling, burning, and itching may also be present. This is due to the inefficient veins causing the pooling of blood.
Who suffers from vein disease?
Vein disease knows few boundaries. Millions of men and women of all demographics are affected each year. The risk of vein disease increases in families with a history of varicose veins or other vascular disorders.
What types of vein disease does Northeast Wisconsin Vein Center treat?
Northeast Wisconsin Vein Center specializes in the treatment of varicose veins and spider veins. We customize treatment plans based upon individual needs and goals. Our minimally invasive procedures eliminate long, painful incisions and greatly reduce post-treatment downtime.
Our medical providers treat and manage other venous conditions at our partner hospital locations. Conditions include May Thurner Syndrome, Pelvic Congestion Syndrome, Varicocele Embolization, Vascular Malformations, and others. Patients can be confident they are receiving treatment from highly skilled experts in the field.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are damaged veins that grow and become twisted. These veins have weak valves that prevent good blood flow back to the heart.
Healthy veins are important to prevent blood from flowing backward. The backward flow can cause pressure, swelling, and discoloration. In severe forms, varicose veins can lead to wounds that will not heal.
Varicose veins are an indicator that you should consult a medical professional for vein screening and discuss treatment options.
Spider Veins
Spider veins are often a result of the same swelling and pressure that characterize varicose veins. They are smaller, dilated veins that exist in groups closer to the surface and resemble a spider web. It is not uncommon for spider veins to appear together with varicose veins. Unlike varicose veins, spider veins aren’t always the result of venous insufficiency. Other causes include:
- Hormonal changes
- Using oral birth control pills
- Sun exposure
If you suffer from spider veins, a vein screening is recommended to examine the affected area and discuss treatment options.
What are my treatment options?
Our treatments are non-invasive and affordable.
We use multiple approaches to treat venous conditions. Our treatments include Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT), Venaseal, Sclerotherapy, and Microphlebectomy. These procedures provide a minimally invasive approach to those suffering from venous disease. The treatment is gaining popularity due to their low risk of complications, minimal discomfort, and affordability.
Personalized treatment for every patient.
Vein disease symptoms and severity differ from person to person. We offer personalized treatment options that ensure veins are treated properly. Our team works with patients to develop a care plan that is best suited for each individual’s needs.