Like a wide variety of conditions vein disease typically occurs in stages. At first, you might not even notice the subtle changes in your limbs, particularly your legs, but if you are at risk from vein disease then it’s important to assess yourself because there are some signs that you do need to be aware of.
In the early stages of vein disease for example you might notice the following…
Typically, spider veins are small web-like veins that appear near the surface of the skin. They resemble scattered clusters of purple-colored lines but when you run your hand over the surface of your skin they will feel flat. In other words, they won’t appear bulging or swelling.
The good news is that at this stage spider veins are harmless, so while they may appear somewhat unsightly, they shouldn’t cause you any problems. Most treatments at this stage are carried out as a precaution and for cosmetic reasons.
Unlike spider veins, varicose veins can be problematic. Varicose veins are more pronounced and can appear raised and dark from the surface of the skin. They occur when the one-way valves controlling the flow of blood towards the heart become weakened or damaged. This, in turn, causes blood to pool or collect in the vein itself. More often than not they are a contributing factor to pain, tingling, itching, and swelling in the lower limbs and, in some cases, if knocked or banged, they can bleed profusely. In other words, they can in some instances be debilitating.
Normally, varicose problems are the first indication that a person has vein disease and as a result, they will typically seek some sort of assistance at this stage.
If, however, varicose veins are ignored or treatment is delayed to a great extent, then this can lead to worsening symptoms and a significant drop in quality of life.
These latter stages of vein disease include…
Untreated varicose veins in some cases can lead to skin discoloration and leg swelling. When veins aren’t functioning correctly, the body is unable to absorb fluid properly. This often manifests itself in swollen limbs particularly the ankle area where the skin becomes red or pale. At this stage of vein disease, it’s highly likely that the limb can develop open sores that will often take a great deal of time to heal.
Often following on from leg swelling and skin discoloration, venous leg ulceration occurs when the veins experience inadequate blood flow. This means that there are insufficient nutrients to aid any regeneration and healing of the skin. When this happens the subcutaneous skin tissue will typically incur redness and inflammation through which fluid can start to leak. This, in turn, may cause open sores through which bacteria can get in. This can cause a great deal of pain or discomfort and increase the odds of further infection.
If left untreated vein disease can significantly damage the lymphatic system and impede your quality of life. So for this reason, the earlier you can identify and treat the symptoms, the less problematic it would be.
That said, advances in technology and medicine now mean that it’s never too late to treat vein disease at whatever stage your problems are at. In fact, whenever you decide to take action against vein problems or vein disease symptoms, you are taking a proactive step towards a healthy vein and lymphatic system and therefore, a healthier you!
Here at the Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy (MINT) Dr. Akinwande and his team utilize a variety of non-surgical treatments to eradicate vein disease problems. Treatments include the very latest vein ablation therapy, sclerotherapy, and phlebectomy – all of which are carried out without the need for invasive surgery.
If you are experiencing vein problems and would prefer to take action now, then book a consultation with Dr. Akinwande here at MINT. We provide a speedy and positive treatment experience that aims to improve your overall quality of life so don’t delay, call us today for an appointment at one of our 5 clinics, including the latest addition in Chicago, IL.
