Early Signs of Vein Disease
It is important to stay informed on the signs and symptoms of vein disease and the risk factors involved. If left untreated, it could lead to painful outcomes such as varicose veins and even ulcers on the legs. However, there are also treatment options available. If you can catch the early signs of vein disease, you can seek treatment immediately and avoid the harsh symptoms.
Causes of Vein Disease
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a medical condition where the veins walls and valves become weakened. This makes it difficult for the blood to circulate effectively back to the heart leading to deoxygenated blood pooling in the lower legs. This can lead to a whole host of symptoms that one may brush off to other causes at first, but may in fact be early signs of vein disease. CVI is a progressive disease, which means it can get worse if left untreated and can be a serious condition. CVI doesn’t always present itself in the most obvious ways. Varicose veins and skin ulcers on the legs are two very sure signs of venous insufficiency, but they are not always present in every case and certainly not always in the early stages of the condition.
Early detection of venous disease is crucial for managing the condition as it progresses. It is important to be able to recognize the signs that may be less obvious especially since many symptoms can be felt before they can be seen.
Symptoms to look for
Leg fatigue – you may feel an overall sense of tiredness in your legs, which gets worse throughout the day.
Restless legs – you may experience restless leg syndrome, a condition in which you feel an almost constant and uncomfortable need to move your legs.
Edema – you may experience swelling in your legs, especially around your feet and ankles, that worsens throughout the day.
Aching and throbbing – you may just feel an overall sense of discomfort or pain in your legs.
Cramping – you may experience somewhat frequent and uncomfortable cramping in your lower legs.
Burning and itching – you may experience skin discomfort, such as burning sensations or itching and may even notice changes in color or texture.
Contributing risk factors
Anyone can be susceptible to vein disease, however, the following factors could put you at a higher risk:
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Varicose veins or a family history of varicose veins
• Extended periods of standing or sitting
• Pregnancy
• Inactivity
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Female sex
• Age over 50
Further Complications
Painful, itchy red areas and inflammation of the skin are common complications. However, if vein disease is left untreated, complications will worsen. Intensely painful ulcers can form near varicose veins, often near the ankle of the affected leg. Usually a discolored area will form on the skin before the ulcer appears. This requires medical attention. (See When to see a doctor below).
When to see a doctor
If you are experiencing any of the early signs of CVI, you could greatly benefit from an evaluation by a physician who specializes in vein disease. A quick and easy ultrasound screening of your legs can be the key to catching this progressive condition before it can get worse. If you already have the tell-tale signs such as varicose and spider veins, you should make an appointment right away. Dr. Sassan Kaveh at Alpha Vein Clinic in Las Vegas specializes in diagnosing and treating leg vein disease. He and his knowledgeable staff can evaluate your symptoms and determine which treatment is right for you. Our clinic offers the latest and minimally invasive treatments covered by most major medical insurance carriers. Call our office today and take your first step to healthier legs!
Alpha Vein Clinic
Vein Clinic Las Vegas
3150 N. Tenaya Way Se. 400
Las Vegas, NV, 89128
(702) 430 7661
Dr. Sassan Kaveh