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More Than 1 in 3 Americans Suffer from Vein Disease

Damaged veins can take many different forms, from small surface veins to large grape-like clusters. No matter what size or shape, these veins are signs of vein disease. If left untreated, they could lead to more serious issues like blood clots, ankle sores or skin ulcers, or spontaneous venous rupture.

There are two major types of vein disease:

 

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a very common problem, generally appearing as twisting, bulging rope-like cords on the legs, anywhere from groin to ankle. While many people have heard of varicose veins, very few truly understand their underlying cause, and the potential they have for developing into a serious medical issue.

What are the symptoms? Will they get worse?

In addition to the visual appearance, many patients may experience one or more of the following leg symptoms:

  • Pain (an aching or cramping feeling)
  • Heaviness/Tiredness
  • Burning or tingling sensations
  • Swelling/Throbbing
  • Tender areas around the veins

We know that obesity, pregnancy, age, and prolonged standing increase the chance of developing varicose veins.

If you experience symptoms and delay treatment, your symptoms may progress onward to more serious complications including: inflammation (phlebitis), ankle sores or skin ulcers.

Next Steps

Learning More

You can learn more about varicose veins by reading the Article in our Patient Library.

 

Spider Veins

Spider veins are tiny red or purple dilated blood vessels that form when veins become enlarged and swollen with stagnant blood. They commonly occur on the legs, but are also found on the face or other areas of the body. Spider veins are smaller than most varicose veins, but are often darker and more noticeable. This is because these veins are located just below the surface of the skin.

What are the symptoms?

These dilated blood vessels may be short, unconnected lines, each about the size of a large hair, or connected in a "sunburst" pattern. They may look like a spider web or a tree with branches. Spider veins can occur in a small area where they are not very noticeable, or they can cover a large area of skin and be very unattractive.

Sometimes spider veins can cause pain, ranging from dull and throbbing to a burning sensation. The larger vessels are more likely to cause pain, however smaller blue veins sometimes also cause pain.

Next Steps

 

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855 Austin Drive
Demorest, GA 30535
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