Understanding Vein Disease:

Causes, Risk Factors and Finding the Right Treatment

If you suffer from vein disease, you’re not alone. More than 30 million Americans have at least one form of vein disease, also known as venous insufficiency.

It’s much more than just a cosmetic issue – left untreated, vein disease can lead to serious complications.

Vein disease can manifest in a variety of troubling ways, from the unsightly appearance of varicose veins to more serious symptoms like leg swelling and skin discoloration. These vein-related issues can significantly impact your mobility and overall quality of life.

If left untreated, venous disease tends to worsen over time. As the condition progresses, it can severely lower your day-to-day well-being and increase your risk for other dangerous health problems.

Some of the potential complications of untreated vein disease include venous ulcers, infections and even life-threatening blood clots that travel to the lungs.

The right varicose vein treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your condition and its severity. As the original IAC accredited vein clinic in Southwest Florida, our expertise puts you on the right path to the best treatment.

What Causes Vein Disease?

There are several potential causes and risk factors that can contribute to the development of vein disease, including:

  • Heredity: Having a family history of vein disease increases your own risk.
  • Age: Vein disease becomes more common as you get older.
  • Gender: Women are nearly twice as likely to develop venous insufficiency as men. 
  • Obesity: Excess weight puts increased pressure on leg veins.
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can temporarily impair vein function.
  • Lack of Movement: Occupations that require prolonged periods of standing can lead to vein disease. 
  • Prior Vein Injury: Previous clots or trauma can damage vein valves.

The Relationship Between Deep Vein Thrombosis and Deep Vein Insufficiency

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a major risk factor for deep vein insufficiency. When clots in the deep vein system dissolve, they often leave the valves scarred open.

This results in valves that cannot close properly, allowing blood to reflux back down the legs. While deep vein insufficiency can be managed with compression stockings and elevation, it is not treatable by endovenous techniques like ablation.

Fortunately, only a small percentage of venous insufficiency cases have deep system involvement.

Endovenous Ablation
Endovenous ablation uses radio frequency or LASER energy to seal spider veins.
Dr. Magnant in scrubs
Accredited Facility Vein Center from Intersocietal Accreditation Commission

Why Choose Vein Specialists?

If you are experiencing symptoms like varicose veins, leg heaviness or swelling, it’s important to have your veins evaluated by our experts.

At Vein Specialists, our board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. Joseph Magnant and his dedicated team specializes in the latest, most advanced diagnostics and treatments for vein disease.

Don’t let vein disease progression put your health and mobility at risk. The vein specialists at our convenient, IAC-accredited clinics in Fort Myers and Bonita Springs can get you on the path to healthy legs and renewed freedom.

Schedule an appointment at Vein Specialists today to start your journey toward being symptom-free. Let us evaluate your veins and develop a personalized treatment plan so you can reclaim an active, pain-free lifestyle.

Get Varicose Vein Treatment at Our Two Convenient Locations:

What Our Patients are Saying

"Very caring staff, wouldn't go anywhere else."

– Greg F.

"I had two procedures done on my legs. I was nervous when I went in for the first one, but everyone took great care of me and calmed me down quickly. Dr. Magnant talked to me through the entire procedure and made me feel...

– Cathy B.

"Thanks Dr. Magnant for making me feel great. Continued success to you and your great team."

– Ed C.

"This office has a great staff who take their time with you and explain options and procedures really well."

– Martha B.

"Dr Magnant in my opinion is an excellent physician and so kind and caring. He did an excellent job on my legs. Not to forget how patient and positive the staff is. It was an excellent experience. Thanks to all."

– Patricia E.

"Leann was so sweet and knowledgeable. It was a pleasure."

– Patrice

"The front desk, Miss Bonnie; the. MA; The PA, Sharon were friendly, Patient and professional. Thank you"

– Bo Gover

"Dr Magnant is absolutely amazing! I have no pain in my legs. I recommend him highly!"

– Mary Scholtz

"Everyone at Vein Specialists is very professional and very nice. They want to make you comfortable and feel better. I highly recommend Dr. Magnant and his staff."

– Richard C.

"I have been to three doctors trying to find out what is causing the burning and pain in my lower legs. Finally the total experience and professionalism was such a welcome surprise. I finally have options to correct my s...

– Gary S.

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About the Author

Dr. Joseph Magnant is a renowned board-certified vascular surgeon and vein specialist with over 30 years of experience.

Dr. Magnant earned his Doctorate in Medicine from the Medical College of Virginia and completed his General Surgery Residency at the Medical College of Virginia Hospitals.

During his general surgery residency, he served as Chief Resident and earned the prestigious IA Bigger Resident Teaching Award. Dr. Magnant completed his Vascular Surgery Fellowship at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in New Hampshire.

Dr. Magnant is widely published in peer-reviewed medical journals such as the Journal of Vascular Surgery.

See Dr. Magnant’s full credentials.

Dr Magnant working on patient