Venous Leg Diseases
As with any part of the body, it is possible to develop problems with your veins, some of which can be very serious. Turn to DMC Medical Group to assess the situation and provide the medical care you deserve. Your team of specialists work closely with you to diagnose the issue and determine an appropriate plan for treatment.
Understanding Venous Leg Diseases
Your veins are important vessels within the circulatory system. They are responsible for transporting blood from the organs and tissues throughout your body to the heart and lungs where it becomes enriched with oxygen before flowing back into the body. Veins fall within one of three categories:
- Superficial Veins – Veins visible through the skin.
- Connecting Veins – Veins that carry blood from the superficial to the deep veins.
- Deep Veins – Internal veins located deep within the body.
There are several venous leg diseases that fall within one of two comprehensive groupings.
Thrombosis
More commonly referred to as a blood clot, thrombosis can block the flow of blood in a vein. It can also break free and lead to a pulmonary embolism. Specific instances of thrombosis in the legs include:
- Superficial Thrombophlebitis – This is a form of thrombosis that occurs in a superficial vein. The blood clot is usually accompanied with inflammation. These are associated with varicose veins and while they can be uncomfortable, they are not typically life-threatening.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis – Also called DVT, this is the presence of a blood clot in one of the deep veins of your body. An ultrasound is usually required to diagnose DVT. These can be very serious when left untreated.
Venous Insufficiency
The veins located in your legs enable your blood to flow upwards, towards your heart. Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves within the veins of the legs are not functioning as they should, resulting in changes to the skin as well as swelling. The following are examples of venous insufficiency:
- Varicose Veins – This is considered to be superficial venous insufficiency. Since the blood is unable to flow properly, it pools in the vein and results in an enlarged and twisted vein visible on the surface of the skin.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency – The veins in the legs are unable to flow back up to the heart, resulting in blood pooling in the veins. It is most commonly caused by DVT.
Contact Our Office
Although venous leg diseases can be uncomfortable, with the proper treatment they are generally not life threatening. DMC Medical Group is dedicated to providing the care you deserve while striving for the best outcome possible. We invite you to contact us to schedule an appointment.