Vein Disease

Vein disease may produce no bothersome symptoms at all. However, in cases which do become symptomatic, the following are among the most commonly observed side effects:

• Discoloration – Veins may appear blue or purplish in color. The skin surrounding varicose veins may also become discolored.
• Protrusion – As veins become enlarged, they may protrude from skin, with a cord or rope-like appearance.
• Dry or weeping eczema
• Leg Ulcers
• Restless Legs
• Itching
• Pain – Legs may ache, cramp, burn, throb or feel heavy. These symptoms may be worse after prolonged periods of sitting.
• Itching – Itching may occur in areas around one or more of the affected veins.

Diagnosing vein disease relies on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. To confirm the presence of vein disease, a physician may use:

• Imaging Tests – Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT, and MRI can help doctors visualize blood clots in the veins, and subsequent tests can help determine if they are moving or growing larger.
• Blood Test – Elevated levels of a particular substance in the blood called D dimer that is present with blood clots.
• Venography – This technique uses an x-ray and contrast dye in the veins to find potential blood clots.

Vein disease can be treated with lifestyle modifications as well as medication. Compression stockings are most commonly used to help relieve symptoms, improve blood flow and reduce swelling. However, to treat the root of the problem, interventional procedures can be done to remove or close off the diseased veins. Most of these procedures can be done in a Cardiovascular Institute of the South clinic.

Without treatment, chronic venous insufficiency can be very painful and debilitating. It can lead to tissue inflammation, tissue damage, or blood clots, and can cause ulcers and infections, which can spread. It is important to consult a vein specialist for a proper diagnosis.

While certain risk factors for varicose veins are beyond a patient’s control, there are steps that can be taken to minimize veins and their impact on the body. These include:

• Physical Activity – In order to alleviate pressure in the veins and encourage blood flow, it’s important to take regular breaks from sitting by getting up to move and by elevating the legs for 15-minute intervals at least three times per day. Exercise programs such as walking and yoga are also useful to incorporate.
• Compression Stockings – Damaged veins have difficulty maintaining their proper position. This can lead to the pooling of blood, pain and swelling often associated with varicose veins. Compression stockings can help combat this by aiding in vein placement.
• Diet & Lifestyle – Eating a healthy diet of proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber can help control weight. Likewise, patients should limit sodium and focus on drinking healthy amounts of water each day.