The older you get, the more likely you are to develop vascular problems. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for these problems to go unnoticed until they get dangerous. That’s why, today, our vascular experts at VENUS Vein Clinic in Omaha, NE reveal seven signs that you have a vascular problem and need to see a vein doctor.
7 Symptoms of Vascular Problems That Indicate the Need to See a Vein Doctor
1. Your Legs Feel Heavy
One of the most significant symptoms of vascular problems indicating that you need to see a vein doctor is heavy legs. If your legs feel heavy, you may suffer from venous insufficiency. This may not be serious immediately, but it can lead to serious health complications in the future. For example, you may have varicose veins in your legs. If a blood clot breaks off of the end of your varicose vein, it could travel your circulatory system to your lungs or brain.
We offer several methods for varicose vein removal, including sclerotherapy, Venaseal ablation, and ambulatory phlebectomy. Regardless of any medical concerns, you may have, we have a disordered vein removal or therapy option that will be safe and effective for you. The only thing you have to worry about is identifying that you have a vascular problem.
2. Your Veins Are Discolored
Another sign that you have a vascular problem and need to schedule an appointment with a vein doctor is discolored veins. Everyone experiences spider veins, varicose veins, and other vascular problems differently. However, it is fairly common for veins to appear purple, dark purple, reddish, or very dark blue. If some of your veins look twisted and are not the same color as visible veins in the surrounding area.
3. Your Veins Are Twisted
If your veins look twisted or gnarled, you almost certainly suffer from venous insufficiency. If you’re not sure whether your veins are twisted, you should definitely schedule an appointment with a vein expert. We can assess your veins quickly and accurately and identify whether there is a vascular problem. If there is a vascular problem, we can identify which problem it is and the best treatment method for your unique needs.
4. You’re Experiencing Swelling
Do not delay in scheduling an appointment with a vein specialist if you are experiencing swelling. Swelling indicates a damaged circulatory system and needs to be addressed right away. Keep in mind, individuals with vascular problems may experience unilateral or bilateral swelling. In other words, the swelling may affect one side of the body, or it may affect both sides of the body. Don’t feel like you should wait for two extremities to swell before calling.
5. Your Skin Is Discolored
Another common sign that you are experiencing vascular problems is discolored skin. If you have spider or varicose veins, there is a very good chance that the skin around your affected veins is red or otherwise discolored. This discoloration is an indication that blood is pooling due to venous insufficiency.
Discoloration most commonly occurs in the abdomen, legs, and feet because the circulatory system is not strong enough to push blood up against gravity back to the heart. At the same time, the valves of the disordered veins do not close fully so the blood flows backward with gravity. However, skin discoloration can affect the face and other parts of the body with disordered veins.
6. You Suffer From a Chronic Itch
Arguably the most frustrating sign that you are suffering from a vascular problem is an itch that just won’t go away. Sometimes, venous insufficiency causes your veins to itch. Unfortunately, you can’t scratch your veins, so you are left with what feels like constant irritation. If you are experiencing itching that you cannot relieve by scratching, you need an appointment with a vein expert. Destroying or removing the disordered veins will alleviate itching.
7. Your Pain Worsens Throughout the Day
You most likely have a vascular problem if your pain worsens throughout the day. You may wake up relatively pain-free, but if you suffer from venous insufficiency, your pain will increase the longer you sit or stand still. The only way to get a bit of relief is to get your blood flowing. Walking is ideal, but if you can’t walk, you can do calisthenics, like squats or toe raises to support your circulatory system and receive a bit of relief until you can get treatment.
For maximum comfort, we recommend setting a 60-minute timer and walking for a few minutes every time it goes off. In addition to this, you may want to support your circulatory system by walking at least 30 minutes per day at a moderate pace. If you’re trying to lose weight, walk at a moderate pace for an hour daily.
Schedule Your Appointment With a Vein Expert Today
Even if your symptoms are only mild or moderate, you shouldn’t ignore vascular problems. They can lead to significant medical concerns later on. If you’re noticing symptoms of vascular problems, like pain or discomfort in your legs, swelling or skin that is changing color, don’t delay. Call the vein doctor at VENUS Vein Clinic in Omaha, NE right away to schedule your initial consultation. We hope to hear from you shortly!