Todays's article is to discuss the reasons you might consider a visit to the vein doctor. Across the state in NJ and throughout the US, there are multiple ways to obtain expert vein advice. In Wayne NJ for varicose veins, there are vein specialists, cardiologists, internal medicine doctors, and vascular surgeons providing high quality care for affected patients.
For some individuals, the notion of receiving an evaluation of veins is though to be cosmetic. However, most patients are unaware that spider veins and varicose veins are often just the tip of the iceberg. Underneath, there can be a significant issue with the circulation of venous flow resulting in progressive symptoms.
In this article, we review the top reasons to seek out care for spider and varicose veins in Wayne NJ
1) Spider Veins
The most prominent reason for patients seeking an evaluation is the onset of spider veins. These tiny abnormal vessels form on the skin and have the appearance of spider webs. The causative factors are similar to varicose veins and include genetics, venous insufficiency, and hormonal factors. Treatment is primarily cosmetic in nature.
2) Varicose veins
Form at the surface of the skin as well, but are larger than 3 mm in size. They are tortuous and associated with a greater degree of symptoms. The primary cause is often venous insufficiency and genetic factors. The presentation can be variable, however most varicose veins originate from the greater saphenous or smaller saphenous veins. Posterior veins can be related to gluteal reflux and perforator disease is more often associated with skin changes and venous ulcerations.
3) Restless Leg Syndrome
This is a under appreciated condition associated with varicose veins. The truth is venous insufficiency is one of the main reasons for secondary causes of restless leg syndrome. While every patient may not have pain from varicose veins, the involuntary contractions from restless legs during the night-time can be very disturbing. Fortunately, many patients are becoming aware of the association and seeking treatment when appropriate
4) Leg Swelling
Edema or leg swelling is a late stage of vein disease and considered in the CEAP classification system. Leg swelling is considered CEAP stage 3 and is an important indication for treatment when caused by vein disease. However, the finding of leg swelling is not confirmation of vein disease with the need to rule out alternative causes including hypertensive swelling, heart disease, kidney disease, and lymphedema.
5) Leg Pain
Another primary reason patients seek out vein care is leg pain. This is secondary to venous insufficiency as blood pools in the legs and causes aching and heaviness. Some patients can also suffer from phlebitis , which is a painful condition due to the inflammation of superficial vessels. Leg pain is a covered indication for venous treatment when conservative measures including compression stockings, leg elevation, and exercise.
6) Corona Phlectatica
Spider veins in the feet can form dense collections around the medial and lateral portions of the ankle. This gives the skin around the ankle a blue or purple discoloration. This condition is corona phlebectatica, and it is often associated with advanced vein disease (CEAP 4).
7) Stasis Dermatitis
Another late condition associated with vein disease resulting from the inflammation secondary to the blood pooling in the legs. The resulting eczema causes the skin to become red, thickened and itchy with resulting skin discoloration. The skin can subsequently form ulcers.
Treating vein disease is important due to the progressive nature of symptoms. While every patient with spider and varicose veins does not need treatment, an early evaluation can help educate patients on appropriate considerations and guidance. If you are seeking additional information for vein treatment, one consideration is the Princeton Vascular Center at 342 Hamburg Turnpike, Suite 203 in Wayne NJ for comprehensive spider and varicose vein treatment.
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