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.
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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

"Dr Magnant and his staff are professional, caring, knowledgeable, kind. I had an IVUS procedure done and it was life-changing with all of my symptoms resolving. I am beyond grateful and very highly recommend Dr Magnant ...

– Meghan S.

"Very friendly, knowledgeable and professional! I highly recommend them!"

– Debby P.

"Fantastic experience! Entire staff is friendly, professional and helpful. I had laser ablation, surgical removal of veins and sclerotherapy which occurred over a few different visits. I was amazed that despite being an ...

– Pegah G.

"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.

"Dr. Magnant is awesome! He has created a well-oiled machine. He is great at what he does and incredibly professional, an expert at his craft and yet has an awesome personality to top it off. He and his staff make you fe...

– Jonah N.

"Dr Magnant and his staff are excellent and deliver the highest quality of care. While under care of Dr Magnant and his staff i've undergone Microphlebectomies, Endovenus Ablation and IVUS. After undergoing treatment, I ...

– Dan C.

"I recently returned for my second leg procedure at Vein Specialists in Fort Myers. I was initially skeptical when I had my first leg done due to chronic issues and atrophy from nerve damage. Dr. Magnant was honest about...

– Gregory Weichert

"Dr Magnant did a great job, he took the time to explain the procedure to me. His staff is very professional and caring. Christina was so helpful and friendly Eva was so sweet and caring! Thanks to all!"

– Joyce Zimmer

"Dr. Magnant and his entire team are the BEST! First class treatment from scheduling an appointment all the way through my treatment was the best experience I have had at a doctor's office."

– Karen H.

"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...

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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.

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