What is peripheral venous disease?

Peripheral venous disease is a circulatory disease that affects the health of the blood vessels.

Types of peripheral venous disease

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  occurs when a blood clot, also known as a thrombus, develops within the deep veins of the body (the legs). Leg pain and swelling in the legs are common signs of DVT. The susceptibility of DVT increases when you have been diagnosed with conditions that affect the blood clotting process.
• Varicose veins
  are unsightly, protruding veins that appear on the skin’s surface. Varicose veins occur when the veins fill up with blood and protrude from the skin. This condition is cosmetically displeasing, which is why many people opt for surgery to have them removed. In addition, varicose veins occur when the veins are no longer functioning optimally—instead, blood pools in the veins rather than flowing to the heart. As a result, the veins become dilated. Often, varicose veins appear in the legs first.
• Chronic venous insufficiency
  is a lifelong illness that affects the veins in the legs. Chronic venous insufficiency damages the valves through which blood flows. So, blood collects in the valves instead of blood travelling to the heart.

How do you treat peripheral venous disease?

Dr Viljoen will determine the treatment plan for peripheral venous disease based on your medical history, health status and the severity of your symptoms.

Typical treatments include the following:

• Lifestyle changes to manage the condition
• Medication to facilitate blood flow
• Graded compression stockings

For varicose veins, typical treatments include sclerotherapy, which involves using a chemical to obstruct the affected vein or laser surgery to treat the large vein. Alternatively, endoscopic surgery may be performed using a long, slender and flexible scope to obstruct the vein.

Dr Viljoen will discuss these treatment options with you before deciding on an appropriate plan to address your concerns. In addition, he may decide to refer you to a specialist for more extensive, specialised procedures.