Certain habits, lifestyles, and even occupations can influence the way your veins function. Standing or sitting for long periods, wearing restrictive clothing, or carrying extra weight can all add stress to your circulatory system. If you aren’t paying close attention, the early signs that your veins are struggling can easily go unnoticed.
At Shaheen Vascular, we are here to help you understand and manage these changes before they develop into more serious concerns. We will go over some of the signs that it may be time to see a vascular specialist and how you can promote long-term vein health right at home in Mountain View, CA.
Your vascular system is an intricate network of arteries, veins, and capillaries that moves blood throughout your body, delivering oxygen and nutrients and removing waste. Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart, while veins return it back. They have to work against gravity in many parts of the body. To make this possible, veins have tiny one-way valves that open and close to keep blood flowing in the right direction.
When these valves weaken or the vessel walls lose elasticity, blood can pool, which can cause common vascular problems like varicose veins and other circulation issues. The venous system is also involved with temperature regulation and tissue repair, and even minor disruptions can affect overall health.
Varicose veins develop when vein walls or valves become weakened and enough blood collects to cause visible bulging under the skin. They look twisted or rope-like, and may be blue or purple in color. These enlarged veins are most common in the legs since standing or sitting for long periods puts pressure on the lower body’s circulatory system. Genetics, age, pregnancy, and lifestyle factors can all contribute to their development.
You may notice changes in the appearance or texture of your leg veins, including swelling, heaviness, or aching after standing or sitting. Itching, throbbing, or muscle cramping can also occur, especially toward the end of the day. Skin around the affected veins may darken or become irritated, which could be a sign of reduced circulation and inflammation.
Untreated varicose veins can lead to more serious problems, such as chronic swelling or skin changes that make the area more vulnerable to injury. Poor circulation can also increase the risk of blood clots or ulcers, which can be difficult to heal. Seeking evaluation from a vascular surgeon can help identify the underlying cause and determine the best approach to improve vein health and comfort.
Spider veins are small, thin blood vessels that become visible near the surface of the skin, and may look like little red, blue, or purple lines. These spidery or sunburst veins are usually found on the legs or face. They develop when valves inside smaller vessels weaken and allow blood to pool in localized areas. They are similar to varicose veins in cause, but they are usually only cosmetic in nature and do not usually cause other symptoms. They can also be easier to treat with non-invasive or minimally invasive methods.
Changes in the appearance of your skin, such as small clusters of red or purple lines, can indicate developing spider veins. Some people may feel mild aching or a feeling of heaviness in the legs that accompany these visible changes. You may also notice skin sensitivity or a burning sensation after standing or sitting for too long.
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in the leg veins no longer function properly and cause the blood to flow backward instead of returning to the heart. It is a more advanced stage of circulatory dysfunction, and varicose veins can be one of its symptoms. Persistent swelling, leg pain, and skin changes often develop as circulation continues to struggle. The condition can affect daily comfort and, if left unaddressed, may increase the likelihood of other vascular complications.
Swelling in the lower legs or ankles that worsens throughout the day can signal chronic venous insufficiency. You may also notice aching, throbbing, or tightness in your calves, along with visible leg veins that look more pronounced after activity or long periods of sitting. Skin around the ankles can become discolored, thickened, or itchy as the condition progresses.
Untreated chronic venous insufficiency can lead to inflammation, open sores known as venous ulcers, or infections caused by poor skin integrity. Ongoing circulation problems can also increase the risk of developing blood clots. A vascular surgeon can give you the proper diagnosis and determine which treatments or lifestyle adjustments can best support vein function and leg health.
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often in the legs. The condition can develop after long periods of inactivity, injury, or surgery, when blood flow slows and clotting becomes more likely. Although it might not always cause noticeable symptoms, it requires prompt medical attention because the clot can move through the bloodstream and create serious complications.
Pain, tenderness, or swelling in one leg can be a warning that a clot is forming. The area may feel warm or look red and tight compared to the other leg. Some people describe a dull ache that gradually worsens, especially after sitting for long stretches or following recent travel or surgery. Untreated deep vein thrombosis can lead to lasting vein damage known as post-thrombotic syndrome, which causes chronic swelling and discomfort. The most serious risk occurs if part of the clot travels to the lungs and causes a life-threatening condition called a pulmonary embolism.
A vein blockage happens when blood flow through a vein is partially or completely obstructed because of a clot or compression. A clogged artery happens when fatty deposits called plaque build up inside the artery walls and restrict oxygen-rich blood from reaching organs and tissues. Both conditions interfere with circulation but affect the body differently, and both can lead to serious health concerns if not addressed.
Swelling, heaviness, or pain in one limb can signal a developing vein blockage, especially if symptoms come on suddenly. When arteries are affected, fatigue, cramping, or numbness in the legs may occur during activity, with some ease when resting. Skin temperature differences between limbs or slow-healing wounds can also indicate reduced blood flow.
Untreated circulation problems can lead to tissue damage, ulcers, or, in severe cases, organ complications. A clogged artery can increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke if blood flow becomes severely restricted.
At Shaheen Vascular, you can receive care for circulatory concerns ranging from minimally invasive vein treatments to vascular surgery. Dr. Shaheen was trained at Stanford and Northwestern Universities and specializes in techniques to support healthier blood flow and improved comfort. Located in Mountain View, CA, the practice continues to serve the community with a focus on both medical and aesthetic vascular solutions. To schedule an appointment or learn more about available treatments, contact us through our website or call (650) 965-1909.
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