Understanding Leg Vein Problems
Leg veins carry blood from your feet back to your heart. If a vein is damaged, blood flow back to the heart is reduced. As a result, you may develop vein problems in your legs.
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A Damaged VeinIf heredity, an injury, or a blood clot weakens a vein, the wall near the valve begins to sag. The valve may no longer close fully, allowing blood to move backward. Most vein problems begin with damaged veins. |
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A “Ropy” VeinOnce a vein is damaged, blood pressing against the sagging wall may cause the vein to bulge or twist like a rope. Eventually, the valve can’t close. Blood may begin to pool or clot in the vein. |
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Pooling BloodA valve that doesn’t close cannot hold blood. Blood moves backward. It pools around the first healthy valve that stops the blood from moving backward. |
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Clotting BloodWhen blood moves slowly, it may collect above a valve. Over time, the blood forms a clot, which may grow big enough to close off the vein. |
Vein problems can cause leg conditions such as varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis, or chronic venous insufficiency. Your health care provider can give you more information.
