Do You Need to See a Vein Specialist?
In the venous system, this damage is called “venous reflux” or “venous insufficiency” — basically, one or more veins are just not working properly. Without getting into a lot of ”medical-speak”, here’s a quick idea of what this means: after the blood comes down from the heart into the legs, it is then supposed to move back up toward the heart again. Where there is reflux or insufficiency, the blood doesn’t flow back up. Instead, it gets stuck in the leg and has a hard time getting out, leading to a pressure build-up.
Symptoms and complications of this range from mild (itching, restlessness, heaviness), to more severe (aching, burning, throbbing, cramping, swelling), to extremely severe (bulging or dilated veins on the surface, ulcers or wounds that won’t heal, and even deep vein thrombosis – DVT – which is a blood clot in a deep vein). Although most people with venous insufficiency may not go on to have more serious problems, it is vitally important to identify the underlying cause — as soon as possible.
If you have concerns about the veins in your legs, or you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you need to see a vein specialist immediately. Look for someone who:
- is well-educated in understanding the complexity of symptoms and potential serious complications,
- is expert in the diagnosis of underlying causes (and in the procedures to diagnose effectively and completely),
- understands that symptoms (like bulging surface veins) and underlying causes (to prevent recurrence) must both be treated,
- uses modern, effective, proven methods of treatment that are well-tolerated by patients,
- and most importantly, is board-certified, proving your doctor’s demonstrated expertise.
Do you deserve any less?
