Do I have a vein problem?

Most people are able to recognize the beginning signs of vein disease. They appear as small blue purple or red veins. You may experience some or all of the following symptoms:

- Achiness
- Itching, burning, numbness
- Tired or heavy feeling
- Cramping
- Restlessness at night
- Painful veins
- Skin discoloration
- Swelling
- Sores around the ankles

Varicose veins are abnormal superficial veins that develop in the soft tissue beneath the skin. When diseased, the superficial venous system has a very different function than the deep venous system.  Deep veins are found within muscle and are essential for the return of blood to the heart. Varicose veins appear swollen and knotted and do not transport blood back to the heart. Therefore, they can be removed without causing problems.  In fact, this can improve the venous circulation by redirecting blood flow back to the deep veins.
 

Who can have venous disease?

Anyone can have vein disease. Women of childbearing age and older most commonly suffer from varicose and spider veins; however, men and women of any age may be affected. There are many contributing factors. Hormonal influences, heredity, multiple pregnancies and aging can contribute to developing varicose veins. The primary cause is still not known.
 

Untreated vein disease never gets better.  It will only stay the same or worsen.  If you have beginning signs and symptoms, you should consult with a specialist before complications develop.