Venous diseases – symptoms and stages

Leg ulcers

Leg ulcers, which will not heal properly, are often caused by a venous disease. If a wound will not heal after a period of weeks or even months, the cause is almost always a circulation problem. There may be several reasons behind this but in most cases the venous valves are not in perfect condition. A leg ulcer will generally be preceded by many years of chronic venous disease. Therefore it is a very good idea to prevent such disease whilst you are young.

Vein inflammation

If a leg vein is painful, the skin around it is red and feels warm, this could indicate vein inflammation. The possible causes of this include varicose veins or an acute infection, for example after an insect sting or after treatment with an intravenous catheter. Vein inflammation may result in serious health risks. Discover when you should definitely consult a doctor.

Vein thrombosis

A vein thrombosis is a medical emergency which requires immediate treatment. A thrombosis is when a blood clot (thrombus) partly or fully blocks a blood vessel acting like a plug. If it is detected too late it can cause consequential damage to your veins or even a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism. Discover how to identify a thrombosis, what risk factors it involves and how it can be treated.

Spider Veins

These web-like, blueish, very thin vein structures under the skin (particularly on the legs), which for most people are minor cosmetic flaws. However, spider veins can also indicate the start of a venous disease and may turn into varicose veins and require treatment at some point. The formation of spider veins cannot be completely prevented. But there are several possible ways to keep veins healthy and prevent spider veins from developing into varicose veins.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are thickened veins which meander down the legs and are clearly visible under the skin. Many people regard varicose veins as a cosmetic problem but this venous disease can also become a serious health risk! Some forms of varicose veins must be treated for medical reasons, whilst others are harmless. Only a vein specialist (phlebologist) can assess them. Discover how to prevent varicose veins and when you should consult a doctor.

Venous insufficiency

In a venous insufficiency, the vein function is defective and the blood cannot be pumped completely from the legs back upwards towards the heart. If the venous valves are not intact, a venous insufficiency could result in consequential problems such as varicose veins. If your working day involves lengthy periods sitting or standing, this could the development of venous insufficiency. Discover what symptoms indicate a venous insufficiency and how it can be treated here.