If you suffer from chronic swollen legs and ankles, you have probably already done some research and may have eliminated some of the numerous causes. You may have also learned a bit about venous insufficiency as a cause of swelling in the lower body. If you stand for long periods of time at work, you probably know all too well the pain and frustration of dealing with frequently swollen lower extremities from venous insufficiency. The experts at Chicago Vein Care Center have compiled this advanced guide to swollen legs and ankles just for you.

What do Chicago, IL residents need to know about swollen legs & ankles?

varicose copy 2In venous insufficiency, one of the major leg veins (the great saphenous vein) is unable to efficiently pump blood back to the heart. As a result, blood succumbs to gravity and falls down the veins and pools. The collected blood stretches out the vein and causes it to swell. Swelling can become painful and very noticeable, sometimes accompanied by skin discoloration. Unsightly varicose veins frequently develop too.

This swelling close to the surface of your skin is apparent pretty quickly. If the swelling happens deep inside your leg, it may not be quite as noticeable at first, but it can become worse over time.

It is important to understand that not everyone’s swollen legs and ankles are caused by venous insufficiency. The swelling can also be caused by heart failure. To distinguish between these two very different conditions, remember that one characteristic unique to heart failure is shortness of breath and there is no skin discoloration.

What if only one leg is swollen?

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a dangerous condition in which a clot or multiple clots develop inside the deep-lying leg veins. If the clot moves through the vein up to the heart or lungs, pulmonary embolism or heart attack can occur. Sometimes swelling in only one leg is accompanied by tender, red or feverish skin at the affected area. If you have symptoms of DVT, seek medical attention immediately to avoid life-threatening consequences.

What options are available in Chicago for vein treatment?

Many patients seek treatment at Chicago Vein Care Center after suffering from swelling for several weeks or months. At your initial consultation and venous evaluation, Dr. Ramon Castro will personally examine your current level of discomfort and swelling. Once the root cause of your swelling has been determined, he will work with you to create an individualized vein care plan.

Depending on the nature of your condition, there are several treatment options available today that are virtually painless alternatives to outdated surgical stripping for vein removal. Chicago residents like you can take comfort knowing that you have minimally invasive treatment to choose from, such as sclerotherapy and vein laser surgery.

With options for simple treatment that provide quick and effective solutions for vein problems, there is no reason not to seek help. When you are ready to finally get relief for your swollen and achy legs and ankles, call us at 773-283-7887. Dr. Castro and his caring team look forward to meeting you soon.