What Are the Stages of Vein Disease?

More than 40 million Americans are affected by vein disease, but most of those affected never seek treatment. Approximately 1% of those with vein disease pursue remedies for vein disease, and even then, it’s usually after they experience the worsening symptoms. Here are the five stages of vein disease.

Reticular Veins (Spider Veins)

Spider veins or reticular veins are the first stages of vein disease. You’ll notice the spidery purple veins that first appear on your skin. This stage might feel minor, with no discomfort or pain. The symptoms will likely worsen with time.

Varicose Veins

This stage includes bulging or rope-like veins in your legs accompanied by pain, swelling, and tingling. The worsening effects of varicose veins include bleeding veins, burning or itching, hardening veins, and inflammation.

Swelling (Edema)

Edema or swelling are symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) as blood pools in the veins of your legs. You’ll probably notice itching, tightness, numbness, and pain when you walk or stand. As the symptoms worsen, your skin may feel leathery with muscle spasms or even ulcers. You can relieve some symptoms of swelling by elevating your feet to help with circulation.

Skin Discoloration (Lipodermatosclerosis)

Discoloration or lipodermatosclerosis affects your legs as your skin’s fatty tissue becomes inflamed, which leads to skin irritation, itching, and pain. Your skin may even bleed or crack as the condition worsens.

Ulcers and Open Sores

If you haven’t sought treatment for vein disease during one of the earlier stages, the fifth stage results in ulcers and open sores. Your ulcer may fit into one of three categories:

Due to being diabetic
Venous stasis
Arterial

Even though 80-90% of ulcers are of the venous stasis variety, any of these ulcers can become painful and chronic, particularly with contributing factors related to diet, obesity, drinking, and smoking.

Next Step: Consult with Vanishing Veins Northwest

At Vanishing Veins Northwest, we offer further insight into the stages of varicose veins. We help you understand the symptoms and what you can expect from the progressive conditions and treatment options. Find out what you can do to mitigate and prevent the worsening symptoms of vein disease.