Vein Disease

About one in three Americans over the age of 45 have vein disease. When left untreated, vein disease increases your risk of more serious health problems, including blood clots, a heart attack, or stroke. Our team diagnoses and treats vein disease using safe, proven methodologies at all Connecticut locations. To receive comprehensive care for vein disease, book online to request an appointment or call the office today.

What is vein disease?

Vein disease refers to any condition that negatively affects the health or functioning of your veins and arteries. Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood away from your heart, while veins carry oxygen-poor blood to your heart.

If the valves inside your blood vessels become damaged due to venous disease, they stop functioning normally. That allows blood to flow in the wrong direction, increasing your risk of potentially serious health problems.

What are some common types of vein disease?

The team at Vein Institute diagnoses and treats several types of vein disease, including:

Blood clots

A blood clot occurs when your blood solidifies, forming a hardened mass. Clotting is a natural process that prevents you from losing too much blood, but it can also occur due to underlying health problems. If a clot forms and breaks off, it can travel through the veins in your heart or lungs, cutting off blood flow. When this occurs, it’s considered a medical emergency.

Deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in your arms or legs. DVT isn’t life-threatening on its own, but if the clot breaks away, it can travel through your bloodstream and result in a clot in the lung, medically known as pulmonary embolism.

Chronic venous insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the vein valves in your legs no longer close. Over time, this allows your blood to pool backward, resulting in a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including leg swelling, skin discoloration, and the formation of venous ulcers.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are bulging, three-dimensional veins that are red, purple, or blue. They can occur anywhere on the body but are especially common on the thighs, hips, and legs. Varicose veins aren’t necessarily a serious health problem, but they can trigger uncomfortable symptoms like itching, tingling, or swelling.

Spider veins

Spider veins are small veins that are green, blue, or red. They typically occur on the face around the nose and across the cheeks. Spider veins aren’t painful or dangerous, but they can negatively affect your self-esteem. A series of in-office treatments can minimize their appearance and help you feel better.

Venous ulcers

Venous ulcers are slow-healing wounds that occur due to abnormal vein function. When left untreated, venous ulcers may become infected, increasing the risk of gangrene, tissue death, and amputation.

How is vein disease treated?

Treatment of vein disease depends on the type you have and the severity of your symptoms. Whenever possible, the team at Vein Institute recommends conservative, minimally invasive treatments, including exercise, eating a healthy diet, and losing weight.

If your symptoms persist or get worse, the team might recommend:

If you have a severe case of vein disease, the team might recommend surgical intervention.

To learn more about the treatment of vein disease, request a consultation at Vein Institute. Request to schedule an appointment or call the nearest office today.