What Is Vein Disease?

Vein disease affects millions of people in the United States. Yet, despite its prevalence, it often goes overlooked and untreated. Those with vein conditions sometimes forego professional treatment and suffer through their symptoms instead. ReVaMP Heart & Vascular Institute aims to change that. We educate people in the Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey regions about the most common vein diseases and their causes. Learn more about these widespread conditions and how you can get top-tier treatment.

Understanding Vein Diseases

Vein disease, also known as venous insufficiency, occurs when veins don’t properly send blood between the limbs and the heart. This disorder can lead to a range of health issues, some mild and others severe. Vein disease is prevalent in adults over 40, but other risk factors include genetics, pregnancy, high BMI, and birth control use.

Recognize the Symptoms of Vein Diseases

Vein and vascular diseases come with a slew of symptoms. While some are manageable, others cause quite a bit of discomfort. Be on the watch for these symptoms:

• Swollen legs and ankles
• Heaviness or fatigue in the legs
• Spider or varicose veins
• Itching, tingling, or burning sensations in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Ulcers

How Do Veins Work?

To better understand vein disease, let’s talk about how veins work. Essentially, veins are responsible for returning blood to the heart. They have one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward, which are especially important in the legs, where blood must travel long distances to reach the heart.  When these valves fail, blood pools in the veins and causes conditions like varicose veins and venous insufficiency.

How We Diagnose Venous Conditions

If you suspect you have a vein disease, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with ReVaMP Heart & Vascular Institute. Our team will set you up with a physical exam and order the appropriate tests to make a diagnosis. Here are some of the most common ways we diagnose vein diseases:

• Ultrasounds—These non-invasive imaging tests help us visualize blood flow and identify leaky vein valves or blood clots.
• Venography—This test involves injecting contrast dye into the veins to make them visible on X-rays. The result is a detailed image of the veins that guide treatment decisions.

A Range of Treatment Options

The good news is that we specialize in several vein disease treatments. Depending on the specifics of your condition, we may recommend the following approaches:

• Compression Stockings—These are often the first line of defense against vein conditions. Compression stockings apply pressure to the legs, improving blood flow and reducing swelling.
• Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment—Minimally invasive procedure to seal off damaged veins.
• Sclerotherapy—This minimally invasive procedure collapses affected veins and reduces overall symptoms.
• Micro-stab Phlebectomy—Minimally invasive incisions to remove engorged varicose veins.

Consider Lifestyle Changes for Prevention

When combined with medical treatment, certain lifestyle changes can greatly impact your well-being. Consider these modifications for healthier veins:

Diet

A balanced diet can significantly impact your vein health. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, can strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important—you can get these in your diet with some types of fish. We also recommend avoiding processed foods high in sodium, as excessive salt can lead to fluid retention and swelling.

Exercise

Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to maintain healthy veins. Exercise promotes good circulation and strengthens the calf muscles, which act as a pump to help blood return to the heart. Activities like walking, cycling, and swimming are particularly beneficial.

Regular Checkups

Don’t put off your medical checkups! These appointments are crucial for the early detection of vein disease. We may be able to identify risk facts and symptoms before they become severe.

Why Vein Health Matters

Understanding vein disease is vital. Untreated vein issues can lead to serious complications, including blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). What’s more, vein diseases can put a strain on your quality of life. Chronic pain can limit mobility and affect daily activities, and visible veins may harm your self-confidence. With speedy treatment from the team at ReVaMP Heart & Vascular Institute, you can minimize symptoms and live comfortably despite vein disease.

Contact Our Specialists Today

Instead of dealing with leg swelling and ankle pain on your own, look to the professionals at ReVaMP Heart & Vascular Institute. Our offices offer a range of treatments and diagnostic tools to get you on the road toward better vein health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.