The Progression of Vein Disease
Vein disease is a common and often under-diagnosed condition, affecting millions of Americans each year. Many people believe varicose and spider veins are just a cosmetic issue, and that treatment is not medically necessary or covered by insurance. But, vein disease can progress to significantly worsened conditions if not treated properly and early.
Stage 1 - Spider Veins
In the earliest stage of vein disease, you might notice small red or blue veins on the leg that resemble a spider’s web. Known as spider veins or telangiectasia, these can be an indication your lower leg veins are being over-taxed. This means small valves inside the vessels may be wearing out, allowing blood to pool inside the vein so that it enlarges and becomes visible on the skin’s surface.
In most cases, spider veins are simply a cosmetic concern, however, spider veins can signify underlying vein disease. Treating spider veins not only improves appearance, but also prevents the progression of venous disease.
Stage 2 - Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are large, visible veins that can be red, blue or flesh-colored and often protrude above the surface of the skin. These swollen vessels are most commonly found on the lower leg, though they can appear elsewhere.
Varicose veins are a sign that your vein disease is progressing, particularly when you begin to display symptoms such as heaviness or pain. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to increased symptoms, which can interfere with daily life and activities.
Stage 3 - Edema
Oftentimes, the next phase of vein disease is characterized by swelling of the lower leg, ankle, and foot. Also known as edema, this symptom can cause tightness in the skin. This chronic painful leg swelling manifests over the course of the day or after standing for long periods of time. The swelling may improve when the legs are elevated, but will typically return when the elevation stops.
Stage 4 - Skin Changes
Over time, untreated vein disease can cause skin changes such as; discoloration, hardening, or thinning. The skin may turn red or brown and may take on a leathery look and feel. Skin may also become thinner at this stage, which can make the leg more vulnerable to injury.
If the vein disease is not addressed prior to this stage, the changes become more difficult to treat and may even become permanent - even if the veins are treated later on.
Stage 5 - Ulcers
Leg ulcers are an indication that vein disease has reached an advanced stage. These large, gaping sores can be the result of a small nick or scratch that quickly progresses to a more serious wound due to the poor circulation and increased pressure caused by the damaged veins. Painful, itchy ulcers require constant care, significantly impacting quality of life.
These ulcerations can be difficult to treat, often taking many months to heal completely. They also have a very high recurrence rate, particularly if the underlying cause of the vein disease is not detected and properly treated.
Because of the potential of permanent damage to the leg, it is best to treat vein disease before it progresses too far. If you are displaying any signs of vein disease, do not delay treatment.
Our varicose and spider vein procedures can stop vein disease progression before it gets worse. You may even be surprised to learn that treatment is simpler than you think, and often covered by insurance.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. Contact us to set up a consultation appointment.