Treat Your Venous Problems with Care at Dignity Health

Veins are blood vessels that transport blood to the heart. The entire network of veins is called the venous system. Unlike arteries, veins have thin walls and venous blood flow is under much less pressure. Venous problems occur when vein valves and walls become damaged and fail to keep blood moving to the heart.

The three main types of venous problems are:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the formation of a blood clot within a deep vein
• Varicose veins, swollen, twisted veins that can be seen under the skin and may cause pain and discomfort
• Chronic venous insufficiency, where the veins in the legs do not work efficiently enough to return blood to the blood at the optimal level

If you’ve been diagnosed with one of the above conditions, quality care for your venous problem is available at Dignity Health Heart and Vascular Institute of Greater Sacramento. Look to our experienced specialists to provide the most advanced care for your venous problems in the Sacramento region. Find a Doctor near you today one of our state-of-the-art facilities.

Causes & Symptoms of Venous Problems

Veins contain one-way valves designed to keep blood flowing toward the heart. Sometimes, these valves become damaged or floppy and don’t work properly. When this happens, blood can pool up in the veins instead of flowing to the heart. Weak veins that balloon out to the side make this problem worse. The stagnant blood eventually causes the surrounding tissue to swell. Swelling is noticeable in the legs, where the heart must work against gravity to get your blood moving back to the chest cavity. Individuals with chronic venous insufficiency should rest with their legs elevated, as it improves venous blood flow.

Venous problems can cause large swelling in a limb or varicose veins. Some venous problems are life threatening, such as when a blood clot from one blood vessel breaks loose and travels to another vessel in the lungs.

The signs and symptoms of venous problems often include:

• Slow healing skin wounds on the legs and feet
• Varicose veins
• Swollen feet and legs
• Aches and pains

Treatment for Venous Problems in the Sacramento Region

At Dignity Health, our treatment and prevention options focus on restoring vein function, reducing swelling, and preventing complications like blood clots. Common treatments we offer for venous problems include medications, compression hosiery and devices, and sometimes surgical procedures.

Physical activity promotes healthy blood flow from the feet and legs to the heart and can help prevent venous problems.

Your doctor will work with you to find the right treatment for your condition and lifestyle. Reach out to one of our professional today for personal care.