Venous Reflux Disease

What is venous reflux disease? Essentially, it’s when circulation in your lower extremities is poor–you might also know it as venous insufficiency.

Venous reflux disease often leads to conditions such as varicose veins or spider veins, but it’s not quite the same thing.

It’s Not Just a Cosmetic Issue

Anyone who’s wanted to get rid of their varicose veins can tell you they’re not pretty. The twisty, blue, and very visible veins appear in the legs of more than 25 million Americans, and many find them unsightly.

But venous insufficiency is more than just a cosmetic issue. In fact, venous insufficiency can lead to serious quality of life issues — especially if an individual is active or has an occupation that involves a lot of standing.

Individuals with venous reflux disease might find an itchy, burning, or painful feeling in their legs. In fact, many times what’s diagnosed as restless leg syndrome can be related to venous reflux disease.

In its later stages, venous reflux disease can lead to leg or ankle swelling with severe pain and discomfort.

What Causes Venous Reflux Disease?

In short, venous reflux disease is caused by a weakness of the valves that pump blood back to the heart through the veins. This can be caused by a number of things, including aging, being overweight, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy), or genetic factors.

Because of the different pathologies, treatment options can differ.

Home treatment options include using compression socks or elevating the feet. Sclerotherapy can be effective as a permanent solution not only to address the cosmetic condition of varicose veins, but to also prevent blood pooling in the lower extremities and its painful side effects.

Worried that you may have venous reflux disease but aren’t sure of it?

If you want to know more, call the Vein Center of Maryland to schedule an appointment. We are conveniently located in Westminster, Eldersburg, Baltimore, Hunt Valley and Bel Air.