Symptoms

A common symptom of venous disease is itching or burning in the legs. This is caused by an inflammatory reaction within the soft tissues surrounding veins that are not functioning properly. Overtime, this itching can lead to dry scaling skin and may develop into a rash. If you are experiencing itching or burning of the legs, even without the presence of varicose veins, you may have underlying venous disease. Due to the progressive nature of venous disease over time, it is recommended to be evaluated by a vein expert at Oceana Vein Specialists.

A common sign of lower leg venous disease is venous stasis dermatitis, or darkening of skin of the lower leg. The skin might appear red, brown, or irritated and may have the appearance of a rash. Skin changes in the lower legs may be a sign of vein disease even if varicose veins are not present. These skin changes are often a sign of advanced disease and should be evaluated by a vein expert.

Learn more about Skin Changes/Discoloration.

Leg restlessness is a common symptom that many people with venous disease complain of. Leg restlessness is a persistent need to move ones legs and is also known as restless leg syndrome. Like most symptoms related to venous disease, patients complain of worsening symptoms at night and after prolonged sitting or standing. If you experience restless legs it may be a sign of underlying venous disease and should be evaluated by a vein expert at Oceana Vein Specialists. Research has shown that patients with restless leg syndrome and underlying venous disease often experience immediate relief once their vein condition is treated.

Leg swelling, also known as edema, is swelling caused by an abnormal build up of fluid within the soft tissues. Leg swelling most often occurs at the ankle and calve region and may be a sign of venous disease. Leg swelling can occur when veins are not working properly, which allows fluid to accumulate within the soft tissues. If you experience leg swelling, it is important to be evaluated by a vein expert.

More information about Leg or Ankle Swelling.

Many people that have superficial venous disease suffer from leg heaviness/fatigue. This heaviness in the legs is often worse at night or after prolonged standing. When the leg veins are not working correcting, oxygen poor blood can pool within the legs and tissues leading to fluid accumulation. This accumulation of fluid can lead to a general ‘heavy’ feeling of the legs as well as swelling and pain. It is important to note that these symptoms may be present without the presence of large varicose veins, making it important to have an evaluation if any of these symptoms are present.

Varicose veins are surface veins that are enlarged, swollen and/or bulging due to underlying vein disease. Varicose veins most often appear on the thighs, back of the calves, and the inside of the leg.  Abnormal veins are categorized by their size. Varicose veins are the largest and often form a bulging/bump in the legs. Spider veins are the smallest of the veins, measuring about 1-2mm, and often spread in a weblike pattern on the skin surface.

Learn more about Varicose Veins.

Spider veins (medically known as telangiectasias) are tiny (1-2mm) surface veins that resemble a spider web on the skin surface. Patients may have isolated surface spider veins, although in some patients the presence of spider veins may be an indication of underlying vein disease. Spider veins may not be bulging or painful like larger varicose veins, but they are still unsightly and cause for concern for many people.

More Information about Spider Veins.

The presence of leg ulcers signifies the most advanced stage of venous disease. Ulcers form due to abnormal blood flow and increased pressure within regions of vein disease, typically near the ankles and calves. In a majority of patients with leg ulcers, vein disease is the underlying source of the problem. A cornerstone of treatment for venous leg ulcers is the proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying vein disorder.

More Information about Leg Ulcers.