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Free Vein Screening | October 3

Posted on October 1, 2019

Varicose Veins Can Lead to Significant Leg Pain

Treatment can be life changing. Free Community Screening on October 3.

Chronic venous disease of the legs is very common. Approximately half of the U.S. population has venous disease — 50 to 55 percent of women and 40 to 45 percent of men. Of these, 20 to 25 percent of the women and 10 to 15 percent of men will have visible varicose veins. You may notice the darkened leg veins first as a cosmetic nuisance, and a reason not to wear shorts.

Healthy leg veins have valves that keep blood flowing to the heart. Venous reflux disease, also known as chronic venous disease, develops when the valves stop working properly and allow blood to flow backward (i.e., reflux) and pool in the lower leg veins. If venous reflux disease is left untreated, symptoms can worsen over time.

As a result, vein valves will not close properly, leading to symptoms such as:

  • Varicose veins
  • Leg pain, aching or cramping
  • Leg or ankle swelling
  • Leg heaviness and fatigue
  • Skin changes or rashes
  • Ulcers, open wounds or sores

Varicose vein screenings offer an opportunity to know if you are at risk or have venous disease so that you may be treated as soon as possible with appropriate therapy. The Vein Center of South Central Mississippi, located at 1410 Jefferson Street in Laurel, is offering a free vein screening for the community on Thursday, October 3 from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. There is no charge for an appointment; however, an appointment time is required. To schedule an appointment time, please call 601-649-5931.

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