Diagnosing Venous Diseases, Chronic Venous Insufficiency, & DVT in Arizona

The veins in your body serve to move blood to the heart from all areas of your body. The venous system makes up the body’s entire network of veins. A problem can occur when the walls or valves of the veins become damaged, reducing the normal flow of blood to the heart. 

Dignity Health’s Chandler Regional Medical Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center are nationally recognized leaders in heart and vascular care, offering advanced diagnostic care and treatment for all types of venous disease in Arizona. 

To learn more about treatment or to make an appointment with a vascular specialist at Dignity Health, Find a Doctor today.

 

Symptoms of Venous Disease

There are three main types of venous problems:

  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot forms deep inside a vein.
  • Chronic venous insufficiency: Blood flow in a vein is reduced.
  • Varicose veins: Veins become enlarged and unattractive. 

Symptoms will vary depending on the type of venous disease you have. General symptoms of venous problems can result in swelling in the feet and legs, varicose veins, aches and pains, and slow-healing skin wounds on the feet and legs.

Life-threatening venous problems can occur if a blood clot in one vessel breaks loose and travels to the lungs.

 

Causes of Venous Disease

Within the veins are one-way valves that keep the blood moving toward the heart. If one or more of these valves becomes damaged in some way, it can cause blood to pool in the vein. Since the walls of a vein are thinner than arteries, a weak vein can swell and balloon out to the side if there is a buildup of blood. A pooling of blood can lead to swelling in the legs and feet.

 

Treatment for Venous Disease at Dignity Health

If you have a problem with your veins, a vascular specialist at Dignity Health may recommend treatment that is focused on restoring the normal function of a vein, reducing any swelling, and preventing serious complications — such as blood clots — from developing. 

Venous disease treatment may include medications to reduce swelling, compression stockings, and surgery. You can reduce your risk of developing venous problems by getting regular exercise, such as walking every day.

Dignity Health offers a range of treatments for venous disease in Arizona, as part of our cardiovascular services.