Get a Leg Up on a Growing Problem

Offering Expert Vein Care in a Convenient Local Community Location

By Nancy Kennedy

Varicose veins are more than a cosmetic problem. Vein disease, also known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), is an incredibly common and underdiagnosed disorder in the U.S. The condition develops when the leg veins are no longer able to efficiently pump blood back toward the heart against gravity. The result is “pooling” of blood in the legs, particularly the lower legs. This pooling, which tends to worsen over time, eventually leads to physical signs such as spider or varicose veins on the skin surface as well as symptoms including leg heaviness, fatigue, cramps, swelling and restlessness. If left untreated, skin discoloration and open wounds on the lower legs may develop.

There are many reasons why venous insufficiency often goes unrecognized. The gradual onset may lead people to believe that their symptoms are a normal part of the aging process. Others may view spider and varicose veins as merely a cosmetic problem. It is important to remember that veins on the skin surface are often an indication of underlying venous disease that can lead to decreased mobility, skin infections and wounds that are difficult to heal. Also, venous disease may be present without any visible veins on the skin surface.

Your evaluation begins with an office consultation and ultrasound of the legs. Treatment, if needed, is also performed in the office without the need for sedation. Thanks to modern techniques, the days of brutal vein stripping surgeries with hospitalization and long recoveries are over! Most treatment is completed in under an hour and patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately.

Treatment of symptomatic varicose veins often begins with catheter ablation of diseased veins. When performed by an experienced physician, these treatments can be nearly painless and will greatly improve quality of life. Greater than 90% of procedures are also covered by medical insurance and Medicare.

Three Rivers Vein Center located on Vanadium Road in Scott Twp. Is currently accepting new patients with lower extremity symptoms such as those mentioned. Dr. Sheri Macrino and Dr. Jason Andrus pride themselves on providing expert level vein care in a comfortable and convenient location. They believe in a personalized approach to treatment that begins with a thorough evaluation. They are also focused on educating both patients and community physicians on spotting the early signs of vein disease and understanding when further evaluation may be appropriate. For more information, call (412) 677-9842 or visit threeriversveincenter.com.