Understanding venous disorders

What is venous disease?

Venous disease means there’s a problem with the veins, usually in the legs. Veins are blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart. They have tiny valves inside that open and close to help blood flow upwards, against gravity (NHS, 2023).

In venous disease, these valves get weakened or damaged. When they don’t close properly, blood can flow backwards and pool in the leg veins instead of going up to the heart. This extra blood makes the veins swollen and puts extra pressure on the skin and tissues (NICE, 2020).

What causes venous disease?

Venous disease is more common in people who:

Stand or sit a lot for work
Have a family history of vein problems
Are older
Are overweight
Have had leg injuries or blood clots (NICE,2020).

What are the potential signs / symptoms?

When blood collects in the legs:

Your legs can feel heavy, tired or achy, especially after standing or sitting a long time.
You may get swelling (fluid build-up) in the ankles and lower legs.
Small veins can swell and become varicose veins (twisted, bulging veins you can see under the skin).
The skin can become dry, itchy, or discoloured (brownish).
Varicose eczema.
If the skin gets damaged, sores or leg ulcers can develop and be slow to heal (SIGN, 2010).

What can I do about venous diseases?

Treatments include:

Wearing compression to help push blood upwards
Keeping legs raised when resting
Moving around more to keep blood flowing
Healthy lifestyle

Sometimes surgery or special procedures to close or remove damaged veins (SIGN, 2020).

Find out more

Venous disease

Venous leg ulcer

A venous leg ulcer can start from any small wound or knock that breaks the skin.

Venous disease

Recommend compression garments for venous disease

Choosing the right compression garment is key to managing venous disease effectively. This page guides you through everything you need to know, from recommended compression garments which allows you to select the style, fit, and pressure level that’s best for you.

Venous disease

Frequently asked questions for venous disease

From understanding the signs of venous disease to learning how compression can aid recovery, our FAQs give you clear, reliable answers. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing a long-term condition, discover practical tips and expert guidance to help you care for your legs with confidence.

Share this article

Twitter

Facebook