Leg veins, like other veins in your body, return blood to your heart. One-way valves in the legs allow blood to flow up the body, against gravity.

Venous disease (also called "vein disease" or  "chronic venous insufficiency") is a common medical condition that occurs when these valves are not working properly and blood pools in the leg veins, causing discomfort and complications.

What are symptoms of venous disease?

Symptoms of venous disease can include:

• Varicose veins
• Spider veins
• Swelling in the legs
• Heavy or tired feeling legs
• Skin color changes in the legs (skin may look brown or red)
• Leg sores that are difficult to heal

Who gets venous disease?

Venous disease is most often seen in those who:

• Are women, especially during and after pregnancy
• Stand or sit for long periods of time
• Are overweight
• Have a history of blood clots in their leg veins
• Have a family history of the disease

Can venous disease be prevented?

For most people, it can not be prevented because it is hereditary. However, there are ways you can care for yourself that may reduce your risk.

What treatment options are available?

While treatment options depend on the type and severity of the disease, they all destroy or remove problem veins. This allows the blood to reroute through healthy veins.

• Treatment options for varicose veins
• Treatment options for spider veins

Will my insurance cover treatment?

If veins are causing pain or other complications, many insurance companies will cover treatment. Because insurance carriers provide different levels of coverage, it's important to check with your insurance prior to treatment.