A common medical ailment, venous disease is a condition that interferes with the normal movement of blood from your legs toward your heart. While arteries carry oxygen-rich blood to various parts of your body, a network of veins transports the deoxygenated blood back to your heart. To accomplish this physiological function, one-way valves in healthy veins open and close so that the blood flows only in one direction. Gravity works against this normal biological process. If the vein or valve is damaged, blood can pool in your leg. This condition may lead to an increase of pressure inside the vein, which can cause other valves to fail.
While there is a genetic risk for the disorder, the medical condition affects men and women of all ages and activity levels. The condition can be aggravated by pregnancy and some environmental factors. Over time, venous disease can cause a number of symptoms like a feeling of heaviness in your legs, fatigue, varicose veins and skin abnormalities, such as ulcers. If you are experiencing symptoms, you should promptly seek medical assistance from a qualified vein specialist for this progressive condition. If left untreated, the symptoms will worsen and other complications can develop. These include increased pain and changes in your skin.
Early stages of the ailment may include spider veins, the patchwork of blue or purple veins situated just below the skin. While spider veins are usually a cosmetic issue, their presence can indicate that a serious medical problem may be developing. In addition to improving your appearance and self-esteem, the treatment of spider veins by a vein specialist can also stop the progression of the disease. If left untreated, the disease can cause varicose veins that bulge from your leg. Varicose vein sufferers typically experience pain and discomfort. These symptoms tend to worsen as the day progresses or after extended periods of standing.
Some people suffering from venous disease report feelings of itchy skin, cramping and restless leg syndrome. As the condition worsens, you may also experience swelling of one or both legs. Chronic swelling can lead to cellulitis, a potentially serious skin infection. Late or advanced stage venous disease can produce skin changes. When the blood pools, it can leak from the vein and into the surrounding tissue. The damaged tissue can develop ulcers, or open sores, which require proper medical treatment because they do not heal on their own.
Venous disease can affect your overall health. If you have troubling symptoms and suspect that you have this circulation disorder, you should schedule an appointment with our vein specialist at Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center in El Segundo. In addition to reviewing your medical history, Dr. Rayman and his team will conduct a thorough physical examination and order the required diagnostic tests. The results of the exam and tests will determine the severity of your condition and help us determine the best course of action to effectively treat your condition. The sooner your venous disease is diagnosed and treated, the greater the chance of a positive outcome that will improve your health and quality of life.
Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center proudly serves clients in the Los Angeles and surrounding areas.