You may not often think about the health of your veins until you encounter a problem. But when you do, getting the help you need for common vein conditions is important.
A vein specialist is a medical professional who diagnoses and treats veins-related conditions. If you’re experiencing issues with your veins, a vein specialist is what you need.
Let’s explore common vein conditions, their treatments, and when you should see a vein specialist.
Understanding Common Vein Conditions
As an integral part of the circulatory system, veins are responsible for transporting blood throughout the body. They form a network of blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from different parts of the body back to the heart.
This blood, often low in oxygen but high in waste products like carbon dioxide, is then passed to the lungs to be oxygenated again.
Veins are tubular structures that have walls comprising three layers:
- The inner layer (tunica intima)
- The middle layer (tunica media)
- The outer layer (tunica adventitia)
Inside the veins, there are one-way valves that prevent the backward flow of blood.
These valves are particularly important in the legs, where blood needs to be pumped upwards against gravity. When these valves fail to function properly, it can lead to common vein conditions like:
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that can be seen just under the surface of your skin. They usually occur in the legs but can develop elsewhere. Symptoms include aching pain, heaviness, and swelling in the legs.
Spider Veins
Spider veins are smaller than varicose veins and are closer to the skin’s surface. They are often red or blue and look like spider webs or tree branches.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
DVT is a serious condition in which a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of the body, usually in the legs. This can cause leg pain or swelling but may occur without any symptoms.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
CVI is a vein condition when your leg veins don’t allow blood to flow back up to your heart. Symptoms include:
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Aching or tiredness in the legs
- New varicose veins
May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS)
May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS) is a vascular disorder mainly affecting two blood vessels that go to your legs. It occurs when the right iliac artery compresses the left iliac vein, leading to disruption of blood flow. This compression can increase the chances of developing blood clots.
Common symptoms include generalized pelvic pain, painful leg swelling, and varicose veins.
When to See a Vein Specialist
Consider booking an appointment with a vein specialist if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Chronic leg pain or cramping
- Swelling or heaviness in your legs
- Restless leg syndrome (an urge to move your legs, especially at night)
- Skin conditions around your lower legs or feet
A vein specialist will conduct a physical examination and likely use ultrasound to identify issues with venous blood flow. From there, they can recommend a treatment plan to relieve your symptoms and improve the appearance of your legs.
Treatments for Common Vein Conditions Offered by a Vein Specialist
Vein specialists offer a variety of treatments based on the specific vein condition and its severity. Here are some common treatments:
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are a non-invasive first-line treatment that can help manage symptoms by improving blood flow in your legs. They’re often recommended to ease swelling and aching.
Compression stockings are often used in conjunction with other treatments.
Sclerotherapy
This is a common treatment for both varicose and spider veins. The vein specialist injects a solution into the veins, causing them to scar and close. The treated veins then fade over time.
Radiofrequency Ablation
This minimally invasive procedure uses radiofrequency waves to produce an electrical current that causes scarring and closure of the varicose veins. This forces blood flow to reroute to nearby healthy veins, reducing the appearance of varicose veins and any accompanying symptoms.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
EVLT is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. The vein specialist uses a laser to heat the affected vein, which causes it to collapse, seal shut, and eventually disappear.
Vein Surgery
In severe cases, the vein specialist might recommend surgery. This could involve stripping the vein (removing it through small incisions) or ambulatory phlebectomy (removing varicose veins through tiny skin punctures).
Iliac Vein Stenting
This procedure is typically performed on patients with May-Thurner Syndrome, where the iliac vein that travels down into the left leg is compressed. A stent is placed in the vein to help keep it open, reducing the risk of future blood clots developing due to the condition.
Vein Specialist Near Me in Boca Raton, FL
Are you suffering from a vein disease and looking for a vein specialist, look no further. At Advanced Heart & Vascular Institute, our highly trained and skilled vein specialists Dr. Eli Levine and Dr. Michael Schechter specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of vein conditions. From conservative treatments to minimally invasive procedures, our experienced vein specialists provide personalized care tailored to your needs.
Don’t let vein conditions hold you back. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (561) 235-5621 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
