The Signs and Symptoms of Vein Disease

The first thing to know about vein disease is that it is not one single disease. It covers a number of vascular system ailments ranging from common problems like chronic venous disease and varicose veins to other conditions such as lymphedema, a condition that affects the flow of blood to the lymph nodes. These conditions cause the valves in arteries, veins, and capillaries that keep the blood flowing in one direction not to work correctly, thereby hindering proper circulation. These diseases are most common in women over the age of forty but can affect anyone at any age.

The most common cause of vascular diseases is atherosclerosis, better known as hardening of the arteries. Tobacco use has also been shown to be a contributing factor in Buerger's Disease and others. Other health issues like diabetes and heart disease can also be contributors to vascular disease. Lifestyle can also be a significant factor, with people who sit most of the day having a higher risk of vascular diseases, and people with a family history of vein diseases may be at higher risk for developing problems.

It may be tempting to dismiss vascular diseases as cosmetic unpleasantries, as minor inconveniences, or as the price we pay for surviving our teenage years. Vein disease is dangerous, and should not be ignored. Left untreated, these disorders can result in severe pain, loss of mobility, blood clots, stroke, and even death. Luckily, the symptoms of the various vascular diseases are easy to spot early, and there are a wide array of treatments that not only help but can give a person their life back. Here is what to look for.

Symptoms

Many of the vein diseases share common traits. Your doctor will need to make a proper diagnosis.

• Persistent or intermittent pain in the legs or extremities.
• Numbness or loss of sensation in limbs.
• Sores that do not heal or heal slowly.
• Cramping in the legs while walking or during regular activity.
• Differences in color or warmth between limbs.
• Decreased rate of hair and nail growth on a limb.
• Painful feet, even when at rest.
• Thick, bulging, swollen, purple, or ropy veins visible under the skin.
• Unusual aching, stinging, or swelling of the legs.
• Spider veins -- small red or purple bursts on your knees, calves, or thighs, caused by swollen capillaries.
• Unusual bruising
• Chest pain. This is usually a sharp, stabbing pain that increases in severity with deep breaths.

Treatment

When it comes to medical treatment for vein disease, there are plenty of options for most patients. What course of treatment is chosen depends on the specific vein disease. Doctors may start a patient on prescription medication, which could be a blood thinner, or depending on the severity of the problem, recommend procedures such as sclerotherapy or angioplasty. With the right treatment, vein disease can be reversed or even cured in some patients.

The good news is that there are plenty of non-invasive options and treatments, especially if the vein disease in question is caught early. Most of these involve simple lifestyle changes or things you can do at home. Doing these things is also an excellent way to prevent vein disease in the first place, which is a good thing if it runs in your family. Talk to your doctor and try these tips, and see if they help.

Get more exercise: Even something as simple as taking a walk around the neighborhood every day can be enough to fight vein disease. Any aerobic exercise that increases your heart rate is a good choice. If activity causes pain in your limbs, stop immediately and consult your doctor.

Stop smoking: There is no good reason to smoke. Period. Smoking can cause severe problems with the circulatory system, like Buerger's Disease which can lead to amputation.

Become more active: Exercise is excellent, but if you are spending most of the day sitting before and after the gym, you are still putting yourself at risk. Get up and move around more during the day, and avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time. Even doing little things like parking further away from the store entrance and taking the stairs instead of elevators and escalators make a difference.

Better nutrition: Eating healthier will improve your overall health, including your vascular system. Avoid too much salt, sugars, and processed food, and include more fruits and vegetables in your diet.

There are several other things your doctor might suggest such as elevating your feet above your heart when resting to reduce the swelling in your feet. Proper and well-fitting footwear could help alleviate some of the pain and discomfort. Compression socks or support hose may also be recommended.