Why Should You Get a Leg Vein Screening?

Venous or vein health is an area often-overlooked by most people. As a result, venous disease is common among Americans including varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and chronic venous insufficiency. All of these unfortunately common issues with veins can develop into serious problems if left untreated.

Most people decide to go get a vein screening when they can see an issue. This is usually the infamous red or blue spider veins or the varicose veins that can develop on the leg. However, the real issues are not just skin-deep. Often the outer appearances of veins are not an accurate indication of actual vein health. It is possible for very dangerous blood clots to silently develop or the veins valves can become damaged and allow blood to subtly pool without symptoms. 

Fortunately all of these issues are preventable and treatable with early detection.

Who Should Get a Vein Screening?

Everyone can benefit from a vein screening as a part of their preventative medicine routine, however the following factors increase your risk for venous disease and will benefit most from a screening:

• Painful or swollen legs are indicators that there may be an underlying issue in the veins.
• Age. While older people are at a higher risk for venous disease, it can start as early as childhood. Adults over 55 are at greatest risk.
• Family history. Heredity is the number one risk factor for venous disease. If your parents had varicose veins, you have an 89 percent chance of developing them.
• Women, especially those that have had multiple pregnancies, are three times more likely than men to develop venous disorders.
• Professions that require long periods of sitting or standing increase one’s risk.

Get Screened and Back to Amazing

Baptist Health offers free screenings that will evaluate the health of the leg veins and determine the risk of blood clots. Every 5-10 minute screening includes a questionnaire, physical exam of your leg veins and reflux test with an ultrasound sonographer.

Let us help you break free of leg pain and get back to amazing. To schedule your free vein screening, call 501-202-4920.