Conditions We Treat

Venous disease covers a wide spectrum of conditions, from minor cosmetic concerns such as spider veins to more serious conditions including chronic venous insufficiency and venous ulcers. Understanding the nature of your symptoms and obtaining an accurate diagnosis is the first step towards effective management.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that become visible just beneath the skin surface, most commonly in the legs. They develop when the valves within the veins stop working correctly, causing blood to flow backwards and pool in the lower leg. This increases pressure within the vein, causing it to stretch and become visible.

Varicose veins may cause symptoms including aching, heaviness, swelling, itching, and skin changes around the ankle and lower leg. In more advanced cases, they can lead to complications such as skin ulceration. Treatment options such as Endovenous Laser Ablation are available to address the underlying cause.

Spider Veins

Spider veins (telangiectasias) are small, dilated blood vessels that appear close to the surface of the skin, typically forming a web-like or branching pattern. They are most common on the legs and face and are generally smaller than varicose veins.

While spider veins are often considered a cosmetic concern, they can sometimes be associated with underlying venous insufficiency. A comprehensive assessment is recommended to determine whether deeper vein problems are contributing to their development.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition in which the veins in the legs are unable to efficiently return blood to the heart. This is typically caused by damaged or incompetent vein valves that allow blood to flow in the wrong direction, causing it to pool in the lower leg.

Symptoms of CVI may include persistent leg swelling, aching, heaviness, skin discolouration, and the development of varicose veins. In advanced cases, CVI can lead to the development of venous ulcers. Early assessment and treatment can help prevent the condition from progressing.

Venous Ulcers

Venous ulcers are open wounds that develop on the skin, typically around the ankle or lower leg, as a result of longstanding venous insufficiency. The increased pressure within the leg veins damages surrounding tissue, eventually causing the skin to break down.

Venous ulcers can be difficult to heal without addressing the underlying venous disease. Effective management combines wound care with treatment of the incompetent veins responsible for the increased pressure. Learn more about venous ulcer management at Vein Solutions South Africa.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) History

A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — a blood clot within the deep veins — can cause long-term changes to the vein wall and valves, resulting in chronic venous insufficiency. Patients with a previous DVT may be at higher risk of developing varicose veins, leg swelling, skin changes, and venous ulcers over time.

If you have a history of DVT and are experiencing symptoms of venous disease, a specialist assessment can help identify any ongoing venous problems and determine the most appropriate management.

Leg Swelling

Leg swelling (oedema) can have many causes, but when it is related to venous disease it typically results from increased pressure within the veins or impaired drainage of fluid from the tissues. Venous-related leg swelling often worsens towards the end of the day and may be accompanied by aching, heaviness, or visible varicose veins.

Not all leg swelling is venous in origin. A thorough assessment helps identify the underlying cause and determine the most appropriate management approach.

Skin Changes Associated With Venous Disease

Long-standing venous insufficiency can cause a range of skin changes around the lower leg and ankle, including:

• Haemosiderin staining — a brown discolouration caused by iron deposits from leaked red blood cells
• Lipodermatosclerosis — hardening and tightening of the skin and underlying fat tissue
• Atrophie blanche — small, white, scarred areas of skin
• Eczema or itching around varicose veins

These skin changes often indicate more advanced venous disease and should prompt a specialist assessment to prevent further deterioration.

Bleeding From Varicose Veins

Varicose veins close to the surface of the skin can occasionally bleed, either spontaneously or following minor trauma. Bleeding from a varicose vein should be managed promptly by applying firm pressure and elevating the leg. Medical assessment is recommended following any episode of bleeding from a varicose vein.

Restless Legs And Nighttime Symptoms

Some patients with venous disease experience symptoms that are more pronounced in the evening or at night, including restless legs, cramping, itching, or a sensation of heaviness. These symptoms often improve with leg elevation and may be linked to underlying venous insufficiency.

When To Seek An Assessment

You should consider arranging a specialist vein assessment if you experience any of the following:

• Visible varicose veins causing symptoms or concern
• Persistent leg swelling, aching, or heaviness
• Skin changes or discolouration around the lower leg
• A wound near the ankle that is slow to heal or has returned after previously healing
• Bleeding from a varicose vein
• A history of DVT with ongoing leg symptoms

Early assessment allows for earlier intervention, which can prevent conditions from worsening over time.