It is important to understand that many diseases of the arteries and veins cause no symptoms until a potentially deadly problem develops. These problems arise because of the importance of veins and arteries to the circulation of the blood. Arteries send oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body, while veins return the blood to receive oxygen in the lungs. Understanding how these vessels work and the conditions that can affect them will help you stay healthy.
Vein Insufficiency
This condition is caused by an abnormality of the vein wall that causes venous drainage problems (venous insufficiency). Generally, this condition causes varicose and spider veins, and is a relatively common disease. Technically Venous Insufficiency is divided Chronic Superficial Venous Insufficiency Chronic Deep Venous Insufficiency. Chronic Superficial Venous Insufficiency is about 9 times more common. The underlying cause of superficial venous insufficiency is often caused by backward blood flow in the saphenous veins. While varicose and spider veins are perhaps the most common sign of superficial vein disease, there are others which may be more serious.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT, is caused by blood clots that form deep within the legs. If symptoms do present, they can include pain when walking, swelling, pressure, or leg fullness. The seriousness of this condition is caused by the fact that the clot can block blood from returning to the heart, which can be deadly.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the veins deep within the limbs have insufficient drainage or circulation of long periods of time. This insufficiency can occur due to obstructed blood flow between the heart and limbs, or due to the backward flow of blood because of faulty valves. The symptoms of this condition included leg swelling, darkening skin color, and skin that becomes coarse in texture.
How to Identify Vein Disease and Their Treatments
Each different vein disease has its own symptoms and causes. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or feel you need a diagnosis to eliminate the possibility of vein disease, it is important to contact a qualified physician.
Dr. Thomas Wright, medical director of Laser Lipo and Vein Center says, “Vein disease can range from cosmetic issues to very serious medical conditions. It is important to recognize and diagnose vein disease in its earliest stages.”
He continues, “There are a range of very successful procedures and treatments for vein disease. Undergoing treatment is especially important for vein disease that can potentially become serious medical conditions.” If you are concerned about vein disease, please give us a call at Laser Lipo and Vein Center.