Often, many people may not completely understand venous reflux disease. It can become a serious condition, and here are a few facts that may help you understand the disease.
What is Venous Reflux Disease?
Venous reflux disease happens in the veins of the legs, particularly the saphenous veins. These are the veins that are designed to return blood back to the heart. The veins have valves which prevent the blood from flowing in the wrong direction. When the valves fail, the blood will flow backward and pool in the veins. This then causes swelling, and is the primary cause of varicose or spider veins.
Symptoms of Venous Reflux Disease
Obviously, the appearance of varicose veins is a primary symptom of venous reflux disease. Varicose veins appear as twisted, swollen, discolored veins in the legs that occur close to the skin’s surface. Spider veins are small clusters of veins that lay very close to the skin’s surface and can appear on the hands, face, thighs, calves, and ankles. Other symptoms include achiness, itchiness, and legs that feel tired, painful, and heavy. The ankles may swell because of poor circulation.
Problems of Leaving Venous Reflux Disease Untreated
Should varicose veins not receive treatment, they can lead to more severe conditions including skin ruptures, and leg ulcers, among others.
Treating Varicose Veins and Reflux Disease
Early treatment can include walking to increase circulation, wearing compression garments, and elevating the legs can relieve some of the symptoms of venous reflux disease. However, should you be experiencing advanced stages of the disease, medical treatment may be required. These treatments can include:
• Ablation — This treatment uses heat to destroy the affected veins
• Sclerotherapy — This procedure uses a special chemical solution to collapse the veins
• Laser Therapy — Laser energy is applied to destroy and eliminate the vein
Early Diagnosis is Important
Dr. Thomas Wright, medical director of Laser Lipo and Vein Center says, “It is important that any vein disease is diagnosed as early as possible in order to prevent more serious vein conditions from occurring.”
If you want more information about vein disease, or would like a consultation or diagnosis, please call the Laser Lipo and Vein Center. Dr. Wright and his experienced staff will use their knowledge and expertise in all areas of vein disease to make the correct diagnosis, and administer the best treatment if necessary.
