WKRG.com - Facts About Venous Disease

Facts About Venous Disease

• Vein clots kill. (Venous thromboembolism)

200,000 Americans die each year when clots in the veins (Deep venous thrombosis, DVT) break loose and travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE). Many of these deaths are preventable. A simple medical questionnaire can help determine a person's risk for developing one of the clots and allow effective prevention.

• Varicose veins can cause chronic leg swelling.

Most people think varicose veins are only a cosmetic problem. They can be a sign of venous insufficiency or blockages in the veins that can lead to lifelong leg swelling. Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment can eliminate this problem in most cases.

• Vein disease causes debilitating ulcers.

500,000 Americans have leg ulcers caused by diseased veins (venous stasis ulcers). 80% of these ulcers result in decreased mobility. 40% of employed persons with leg ulcers experience earning capacity limitations due to the ulcers, and 5% lose their jobs because of the ulcers. Many of these ulcers can be prevented and treated.