It is estimated that half of the adult population will be affected by venous disease at some point in their lifetime. Vein conditions are more common in women than men. Older patients are more likely to be affected. At age 60, 70% of women and 40% of men are affected by some form of venous disorder.
With normal vein function, some valves open and close, helping to circulate blood through the body. Patients with vein disorders have dilated veins and valves that do not function properly. As a result, blood flows in the wrong direction and causes bulges that appear as varicose veins and spider veins.
Today’s varicose, spider, and other vein disorders treatments are convenient, minimally invasive, and practically pain-free. In fact, most patients undergoing varicose vein treatment resume their normal activities that same day.
Causes of Vein Disease
Vein disease, also known as venous insufficiency, happens when the veins in your legs don’t work as well as they should. Normally, veins have one-way valves that help blood flow back to the heart. However, when these valves get weak or damaged, blood can pool in the veins, causing them to become swollen or twisted. This leads to various problems like varicose veins or even more serious conditions.
One of the main causes of vein disease is age. As we age, the valves in our veins can wear out, making it harder for blood to flow properly. This puts extra pressure on the veins, which can cause them to expand or become damaged.
Another cause is standing or sitting for long periods. People who work in jobs where they stay in one position for too long are more likely to develop vein disease. This includes professions like teaching, nursing, or office work. Blood can collect in your legs when you stand or sit still, stressing the veins.
Obesity is also a major factor. Excess weight puts added pressure on the veins, especially in the legs. This extra pressure makes it harder for the veins to move blood back to the heart, leading to vein disease over time.
Another common cause is pregnancy. The increased blood volume and pressure during pregnancy can affect the veins, especially in the legs. Hormonal changes also play a role, as they can weaken the vein walls and valves. Genetics can be a factor as well. If vein disease runs in your family, you are also more likely to develop it. Weak vein walls and faulty valves can be passed down from generation to generation.
Lack of exercise also contributes to vein disease. Regular movement helps keep blood flowing through the veins. Without it, blood is more likely to pool in the legs, leading to problems over time.
Signs & Symptoms of Vein Disease
One of the most common signs of vein disease is swelling in the legs or ankles. This swelling often occurs after long periods of standing or sitting and may feel worse at the end of the day. It happens because blood isn’t flowing properly and starts to pool in the lower legs.
Another noticeable symptom is varicose veins. These are enlarged, twisted veins seen just under the skin. They often look blue or purple and can feel lumpy. While varicose veins can be painless for some, others might experience aching, throbbing, or a heavy feeling in the legs.
People with vein disease may also experience pain or cramping in the legs, especially after sitting or standing for a long time. This discomfort is sometimes described as a burning or itching sensation. In more advanced cases, the skin around the affected area may feel tight or dry, and discoloration can occur. Brown or red patches may appear on the skin, especially around the ankles.
Another symptom is leg ulcers or sores that heal slowly or not at all. These ulcers often develop near the ankles and are caused by the long-term blood pooling in the veins. They can become infected if left untreated, leading to more serious problems.
Restless leg syndrome can also be a sign of vein disease. People with this condition often feel an uncontrollable urge to move their legs, especially when sitting or lying down. This can make it difficult to sleep or relax.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many different causes and symptoms of vein disease. Read the answers to some of these frequently asked questions to learn more.
How can I help prevent CVI?
There are a few things you can do to try and prevent problems with vein disease. Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly help encourage healthy blood flow.
Tight clothing and high heels can exacerbate the condition, so avoid those. Compression garments in problem areas can assist with prevention as well. Every patient is different, so ask your doctor what they recommend for your specific needs.
What’s the most common cause of CVI?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the most common cause of CVI. You’re at a higher risk of developing CVI if you have DVT. The blood clot damages the valve in your vein, leading to problems with function. It can also occur with common issues like varicose veins. When your veins continue to weaken, it’s harder for them to transport blood.
What are the stages of vein disease?
There are six different stages of vein disease that you can experience. We diagnose CVI at stage three and above. Things like varicose veins don’t mean that you have CVI but can mean that you’re on the path to developing it. Talk to your doctor anytime you notice a new varicose vein.
- Stage 0: Your legs may be achy or tired, but you don’t actually see or feel any other symptoms.
- Stage 1: Visible blood vessels, like spider veins
- Stage 2: Varicose veins that are at least three millimeters wide
- Stage 3: Swelling but no changes in the skin
- Stage 4: You notice changes in your skin’s color or texture.
- Stage 5: Healed ulcer
- Stage 6: Active ulcer
Can stress cause vein disease?
No, stress doesn’t directly cause vein disease. However, stress contributes to habits that can make you more likely to develop it. Effective stress management is important for many different health aspects of your body.
Can autoimmune disease cause vein disease?
Vasculitis is a condition that inflames and narrows the blood vessels. If you have this condition, you’re far more likely to experience vein disease and other complications involving the vascular system.
Is vein disease hereditary?
There are indications that people can inherit vein disease. If one of your parents has varicose veins, your likelihood of developing them goes up by 40%. If both parents have them, your likelihood increases to 90%.
If you suffer from any of the above symptoms or a doctor has diagnosed you with a venous disorder, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sinnathamby. He will explore your treatment options with you. Proper and effective vein treatment will relieve discomfort, improve your health, and support a better quality of life.