The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Globally, more than 190 million people are diagnosed with varicose veins or Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). More than 30 million people are affected in the United States. Risk factors for venous reflux include, but are not limited to, genetics, age, pregnancy and sitting or standing for long periods of time.
Many patients that develop varicose veins in their legs wonder if the condition will fix itself over time. Unfortunately, varicose veins need professional treatment to prevent progression.
Many patients that develop varicose veins in their legs wonder if the condition will fix itself over time. Unfortunately, varicose veins need professional treatment to prevent progression.
If you have varicose veins and have been experiencing pain or discomfort but have been putting off seeking treatment, this blog should serve you well. It is common to think that swollen, achy legs will heal with time and rest, but in reality, it’s much more likely that they’ll get worse.
Varicose veins are frequently surface symptoms of a deeper, underlying vein disease known as Chronic Venous Insufficiency. Due to the progressive nature of vein disease, it will progress and the symptoms will get worse if left untreated.
Stage 1:
The first stage of venous reflux progression occurs when a one-way valve that controls the flow of blood through the veins becomes damaged. In healthy veins, these valves open to allow blood to flow through towards the heart. When these valves no longer function properly, they allow blood to flow backwards and collect in the veins.
Stage 2:
In stage two these damaged veins then take on the bluish-purple color of deoxygenated blood that you can sometimes see on the skin’s surface as small spider veins.
Stage 3:
In the next stage the collection of blood due to damaged veins results in the formation of enlarged, ropy varicose veins. This is the stage when people often first become aware that they have a vein disease. The swollen veins may be accompanied by itching, burning, or numbness along the veins themselves, and by tired, weak, or achy legs. This is the most common stage of diagnosis.
Stage 4:
During stage four– edema – swelling of the legs and ankles increases without skin changes because Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) has impaired the circulatory system. Elevation of the limbs and frequent movement may help, but will not cure the disease.
Stage 5:
During the next stage the skin on the legs can become reddish-brown or white in color, and take on a leathery texture due to venous congestion and poor circulation. This makes the skin more brittle and prone to injury.
Stage 6:
In stage five, scratches or injuries to the toughened skin may cause venous ulceration. These wounds can only be permanently healed with treatment of the underlying condition.
Due to their quick progression, venous conditions should be treated as early as possible. To find out what stage your venous condition is in and which treatment options are applicable, book an appointment at Taylor Vein Solutions. Call us today at (734) 287-1950.
Varicose veins are frequently surface symptoms of a deeper, underlying vein disease known as Chronic Venous Insufficiency. Due to the progressive nature of vein disease, it will progress and the symptoms will get worse if left untreated.
Stage 1:
The first stage of venous reflux progression occurs when a one-way valve that controls the flow of blood through the veins becomes damaged. In healthy veins, these valves open to allow blood to flow through towards the heart. When these valves no longer function properly, they allow blood to flow backwards and collect in the veins.
Stage 2:
In stage two these damaged veins then take on the bluish-purple color of deoxygenated blood that you can sometimes see on the skin’s surface as small spider veins.
Stage 3:
In the next stage the collection of blood due to damaged veins results in the formation of enlarged, ropy varicose veins. This is the stage when people often first become aware that they have a vein disease. The swollen veins may be accompanied by itching, burning, or numbness along the veins themselves, and by tired, weak, or achy legs. This is the most common stage of diagnosis.
Stage 4:
During stage four– edema – swelling of the legs and ankles increases without skin changes because Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) has impaired the circulatory system. Elevation of the limbs and frequent movement may help, but will not cure the disease.
Stage 5:
During the next stage the skin on the legs can become reddish-brown or white in color, and take on a leathery texture due to venous congestion and poor circulation. This makes the skin more brittle and prone to injury.
Stage 6:
In stage five, scratches or injuries to the toughened skin may cause venous ulceration. These wounds can only be permanently healed with treatment of the underlying condition.
Due to their quick progression, venous conditions should be treated as early as possible. To find out what stage your venous condition is in and which treatment options are applicable, book an appointment at Taylor Vein Solutions. Call us today at (734) 287-1950.