LEG SYMPTOMS
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VEIN CONDITIONS
In the United States, more than 50% of the adult population suffers from a type of vein disorder. Diseases of the veins (or venous insufficiency) can take many different forms. At one end of the spectrum there are the small blue or red spider veins (telangectasias) that may cause burning, cramping and leg fatigue. Whereas, varicose veins are bulging, enlarged veins, which lead to skin color changes and ulcers in the ankle region.
Venous dysfunction
Venous dysfunction develops when venous blood return is impaired for any reason and can arise from abnormalities with in deep veins or superficial veins or a combination. It can result from venous obstruction (deep venous thrombosis-DVT or tumors) or from vein valvular incompetence. Superficial venous valve incompetence is the most common form of vein disease and is our specialty at The Vein & Aesthetic Center of Denver.
Superficial venous incompetence
This is the most common form of vein disease and occurs when vein valves no longer prevent back flow of the venous blood into the legs. This increases the blood pressure in the leg vein system, causing symptoms. Direct injury (trauma), prior blood clots, pregnancy, occupations of prolonged standing and genetics all can predispose one to vein disease.
Spider Veins (telangectasias)
These are small blue or red veins that can often indicate underlying vein disease. They may be associated with symptoms of burning, aching or leg fatigue. They are common on the legs and the face. There are good treatment options available for spider veins, depending on the underlying cause.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, bulging veins that are signs of underlying vein disease. These veins can lead to significant symptoms and are usually progressive unless definitive medical treatment is obtained. Occasionally, the varicose veins are associated with hard to stop bleeding - this would necessitate treatment sooner.
Superficial venous thrombophlebitis
This is a blood clot and inflammation in the superficial vein system. Trauma, infection, cancer or varicose veins can lead to this disorder. The clotted vein is swollen, red, warm and tender to the touch. Thrombophlebitis usually requires medical attention. Progression to the more deadly Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) is rare but serious. Treatment may require blood thinners.
Venous Leg Ulcers
Venous leg ulcers are weeping wounds that usually occur on the inside of the ankle and are don't heal easily unless the underlying venous disease is treated. These ulcers are associated with a severe form of vein disease.
Chronic skin changes
Skin changes that last more than 6 months are common findings in chronic venous insuffiency. Venous dermatitis is a dark red, flakey rash caused by venous blood return. Brown discoloration, porcelain-white scars and spider veins also can be seen, most commonly around the inside ankle ("corona phlebectasia").
Deep Venous Throbosis (DVT)
DVT's are an uncommon yet a life-threatening association with superficial venous disease. Patients with varicose veins have an incidence of 9 times that of the general population, which can lead to the deadly pulmonary emboli.
At The Vein & Aesthetic Center of Denver, we specialize in superficial venous disease and its associated conditions. We use advanced Duplex ultrasound to clearly diagnose the underlying vein problem and we treat the diseased veins with state-of-the-art endovenous lasers, phlebectomy and sclerotherapy.
Call for a free screening.
303.355.4772
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TREATMENTS
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