CHRONIC VENOUS DISEASE
Chronic venous disease is a condition that affects the veins in the legs and is caused by a malfunction of the valves within the veins. These valves normally prevent blood from flowing backward in the veins, but when they become damaged or weakened, blood can pool in the veins and cause a variety of symptoms.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of chronic venous disease may include:
- Swelling in the legs or ankles.
- Pain or aching in the legs.
- Fatigue or heaviness in the legs.
- Itching or tingling in the legs.
- Skin discoloration or ulcers in severe cases.
Causes:
Chronic venous disease is typically caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Genetics: A family history of venous disease can increase your risk of developing the condition.
- Age: As you get older, the veins in your legs can lose elasticity and become less efficient at pumping blood back to the heart.
- Prolonged standing or sitting: Jobs or activities that require prolonged periods of standing or sitting can put extra pressure on the veins in the legs and increase your risk of developing chronic venous disease.
- Obesity: Excess weight can put extra pressure on the veins in the legs and increase your risk of developing the condition.
- Pregnancy: Changes in hormone levels and the extra weight of pregnancy can increase the risk of developing chronic venous disease.
Treatment:
Treatment options for chronic venous disease may include:
Lifestyle changes: Simple lifestyle changes such as exercise, weight loss, and avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting can help improve blood flow in the legs.
Compression therapy: Wearing compression stockings can help improve blood flow and reduce swelling in the legs.
Endovenous ablation therapy: This minimally invasive procedure involves the use of heat or laser energy to seal the affected veins and redirect blood flow to healthy veins.
Sclerotherapy: This involves the injection of a special solution into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and fade from view.
Surgical intervention: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove or repair damaged veins.
Our team of experienced vascular specialists at Messner Vascular Institute can work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your chronic venous disease. Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality of care and help you achieve optimal vascular health.