Understanding Varicose Veins and Other Vein Diseases of the Legs – THE BASICS

What is vein disease? 

Vein disease is a condition that affects the veins in the legs when they do not work properly. A person may also develop varicose veins – which are swollen and twisted veins. All veins have valves inside them to keep blood moving in one direction – towards your heart – and they close to keep the blood from flowing back down your leg. What happens with vein disease is the valves don’t work well, or they are damaged completely.

What conditions can cause vein disease?

A leg injury, blood clots, excessive weight gain, and even pregnancy can all cause vein disease. Pregnancy causes a change in hormone levels that can weaken vein walls. Vein disease can also be hereditary. 

What are the symptoms of vein disease?

Patients experience leg pain, swelling in their lower legs and/or ankles, and swollen veins – also known as “spider veins”.  Open sores and skin color changes can also occur where the skin can turn red or red brown, which can be seen and felt around the ankle. The Lakewood ASC medical team has extensive experience in treating vein disease and may recommend an ultrasound to see, in depth, the health of your veins. 

What can I do to reduce my symptoms?

You can reduce swelling yourself by avoiding prolonged sitting and standing, by getting up and walking several times a day, eating healthier and maintaining a healthy weight. You should elevate your legs a few times a day as well.

How is vein disease treated?

The Lakewood ASC medical team can use various treatments to treat your symptoms. Compression stockings, compression bandages, and special coverings can be prescribed. Medication is also available to encourage the veins to work more efficiently, and procedures can be performed to remove or destroy damaged veins so they can no longer fill with blood. Our team can help you choose which treatment options are right for you.

Your Lakewood ASC medical team, serving The Villages, Leesburg, Wildwood and areas throughout Lake County, Sumter County and Marion County has many resources to help you learn more about varicose veins and other treatments for vein disease.

For directions to visit our facility, click here.