Vein disorders aren’t often discussed, but they’re more common than you may think. While not all of them are dangerous, it’s wise to be informed, as some of them can become deadly if signs are ignored.

How can you stay ahead of the game and prepare for any vein disorders that could occur? Read below for your guide.

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is, perhaps, the most deadly venous disease, Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that develops deep in the vein, which could occur in any of your upper or lower extremities.

While this venous disease itself is not life-threatening, the blood clot could break free from the vein and travel through your bloodstream, potentially ending up in the blood vessels found in your lungs.

This condition is called a pulmonary embolism and  deadly, requiring immediate emergency care.

Deep vein thrombosis can also cause chronic venous insufficiency, reducing the blood flow through your veins, which can result in increased skin pigmentation, dermatitis, and swelling.

While half of all cases of deep vein thrombosis are asymptomatic, you may experience swelling in your legs or arms, as well as painful veins. If you do, make sure to call your doctor right away.

Superficial Venous Thrombosis

Superficial venous thrombosis is a venous disease similar to deep vein thrombosis, but a blood clot occurs in a vein that is near the surface of your skin.

Because of this, there is less of a risk for the blood clot to move to the lungs unless it travels from the surface to a deeper vein.

The result is inflammation of a vein, which often appears as a tender, painful, red vein. While not life-threatening, you can have this fixed to remove the uncomfortable symptoms.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are dilated blood vessels caused by a weak blood vessel wall and are among the most common vein conditions.

These dilated blood vessels show themselves as twisted, swollen veins, usually near the surface of your skin. Weakened blood vessel walls allow blood to flow backward or become stagnant, which creates the obstruction that leads to varicose veins.

They usually occur in the legs but can also occur in the anus, which are called hemorrhoids. Varicose veins are not a health risk, but many people get them removed for cosmetic and comfort reasons.

Look Out for These Vein Disorders

These are the three most common vein disorders that can occur. By learning what they are and what symptoms they show, you are putting yourself one step ahead so you can better take control of your health.

If you think you may be experiencing any of these vein disorders, make an appointment with your doctor to discover what options you may have.

While you’re learning about health conditions, make sure to browse through our collection of articles to add to your library of knowledge.