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.

Back of legs with varicose veins with person standing outside in nature. — 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.

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What Causes Vein Disease?

Vein disease usually develops over time. Some things you can’t change, and others you can improve. Common risk factors include:

Family history: If close relatives have vein problems, you’re more likely to develop them too.
Getting older: Veins and vein valves can weaken with age.
Being female: Hormones can affect vein strength, so vein problems are more common in women.
Extra weight: More weight can put extra pressure on the veins in your legs.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy hormones and the growing uterus can make it harder for blood to return from the legs.
Lots of standing or sitting: Staying in one position for long periods can slow blood flow in the legs.
Past blood clots or leg injury: A previous clot or injury can damage vein valves and lead to long-term vein problems.

If you have symptoms like aching, heaviness, swelling, or visible varicose veins, a vein ultrasound can help determine the cause and the best treatment.

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 radiofrequency or laser energy to close an incompetent superficial truncal vein, such as the great or small saphenous vein.

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 surgeons specialize 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

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"If you are going ANYWHERE else to have a vein procedure, I feel sorry for you. Dr. Magnant and his staff are the BEST in the Biz hand down!"
– Melinda M.

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"Staff is amazing! Dr Magnant is also amazing, and very caring. I would recommend that if you're having vein issues, this is the place to come. He is the best and so is his team. Thanks so much for all you guys do!"
– Tammy T.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"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.

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"I recommend Dr. Magnant and his practice to everyone I meet who has any problems with their legs because they are the VERY BEST! When you find the best, you don't need the rest!"
– Lori N.

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"Everything about my experience was excellent! Dr. Magnant has to be the best, most experienced and personable vein specialist anywhere, and his staff is wonderful too. Would definitely return if I ever need any more of ...
– Debby C.

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"Life-Changing Vein Treatment Experience with Dr. Magnant and His Team at Vein Specialists. I want to take a moment to share my extraordinary experience with Dr. Magnant and his exceptional team, both at Bonita Springs ...
– Wayne Walkotten

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"I am so glad that I came here. Every step of the process has been great. Everyone has been very kind and attentive. Dr. Magnant has done a wonderful job. I am now comfortable and confident with my appearance. Rochelle a...
– Lily Bivens

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"Best vein doctor ever. I wanted an experienced doctor who specialized in vascular surgery and would work to cure the problem. Dr. Magnant checked all the boxes. I highly recommend Vein Specialists."
– Agnes L.

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"Vein Specialists is the best medical practice I have ever set foot in! They are a wonderful group of individuals. You guys are amazing!"
– Christina L.

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"Dr. Magnant and his entire team were a godsend to me. The entire staff was pleasant, caring and competent. I am extremely confident that I chose the best vein specialist."
– Dean 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.