4 Sneaky Signs of Poor Circulation
Poor circulation often starts with subtle symptoms that can easily be overlooked. Recognizing these early warning signs is crucial for maintaining your circulatory health and preventing complications down the road.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Venous Disease
Venous disease can cause varicose veins, leg ulcers, and blood clots, and if you aren’t aware of the signs, you might not notice you have an issue. That’s why our team at CA Heart and Vein Specialists, a premier cardiovascular health center, wants men and women to know how venous disease affects health and how to spot the signs.
The impact of venous disease
Venous disease occurs when the veins, particularly those in the legs, fail to function properly. Valves in your leg veins play a key role in keeping blood flowing in the right direction, and they must fight against gravity to do so.
When the valves don’t work efficiently, blood pools in the veins, putting pressure against vein walls, and causing various symptoms. Venous disease can cause problems ranging from cosmetic issues, such as unsightly spider and varicose veins, to more serious health problems, such as leg ulcers.
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are among the most noticeable signs of venous disease. These enlarged, twisted veins often appear blue or purple and bulge out from the surface of your skin. If you have varicose veins, know that they’re more than just a cosmetic issue; they’re also a sign of your vascular health.
Our cardiovascular physician Dr. Majed Chane, specializes in varicose veins, offering comprehensive treatment options, including radiofrequency, MOCA ablation, and VenaSeal™ endovascular procedures.
Skin changes and leg ulcers
As venous disease progresses, you might notice changes in the skin on your legs. It can become dry, itchy, and discolored. These changes occur because the pooled blood puts pressure on your skin, and waste products build up in the tissues.
In more severe cases, venous disease can cause leg ulcers. These are open sores that develop when the skin breaks down and fails to heal properly. Leg ulcers commonly develop around the ankles and can be painful and prone to infection.
Aching, cramping, and restless legs
If you have venous disease, your legs may ache and feel heavy, especially after standing for long periods or after a day of walking. You may also experience some leg swelling that tends to happen in the evening due to fluid accumulating in the lower extremities. In addition to your legs feeling swollen and heavy, they may also feel tight.
Some individuals with venous disease also experience an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, especially at night. These restless leg symptoms can get in the way of sleep and have an impact on your quality of life.
When to seek medical attention
If you experience any signs and symptoms of venous disease, it's important to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can keep venous disease from progressing and reduce the risk of complications.
CA Heart and Vein Specialists offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address your specific needs. Treatments may include lifestyle changes, compression therapy, and minimally invasive procedures to improve vein function and relieve symptoms.
Don’t ignore the symptoms of venous disease. Contact us today to schedule an appointment if you have any concerns about your vascular health.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Is It Safe to Travel With Painful Varicose Veins?
Opting for treatment can make a difference in managing varicose veins and improving your overall comfort. Traveling with varicose veins requires some extra planning, but it is entirely possible to do so safely.
Do Men Have a Higher Risk for Heart Disease?
While being male puts you at a higher risk for heart disease, you can lower much of your risk with lifestyle changes and targeted health care. During Men’s Health Month, we encourage men to take proactive steps toward improving their heart health.
Understanding How Uncontrolled Hypertension Affects Your Body
During Hypertension Awareness Month, take the opportunity to learn more about your blood pressure, whether it's ensuring that you're monitoring it regularly or discussing potential lifestyle changes with a health care provider.
What Are the Symptoms of a DVT?
Deep vein thrombosis can occur suddenly. That’s why it’s crucial to become familiar with the telltale signs of DVT. Acting quickly means getting the treatment you need fast to lower the chances of life-threatening complications.
Are My Varicose Veins Dangerous to My Health?
Varicose veins are common, and they’re more likely to develop as you age. Regardless of when they appear, treatment can eliminate these problem veins and give your vascular health a boost.