helicopter paramedic photo
Minneapolis Heart Institute Logo helicopter paramedic photo computer monitors showing test results photo provider taking blood pressure photo
Home MHI Physicians Information for Patients Programs Information for Physicians Publications About MHI

Common Venous Diseases

Venous disease occurs when the normal function of blood vessels is decreased by poorly functioning vein valves, or by blood clots that obstruct venous blood flow.

Common venous diseases, along with their symptoms, include:

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Definition

Blood clots can abnormally form in a vein deep inside the legs or in the abdomen. These are called "deep vein thromboses."

Common Symptoms

  • Muscle pain in the affected leg
  • Swelling or redness of the calf or thigh

Associated Risk

These clots cause long-term pain, swelling and disability.

For More Information

Superficial Venous Thrombosis (“Phlebitis”)

Definition

A blood clot and inflammation can develop in one or more of the smaller veins just under the skin.

Common Symptoms

  • Warmth, tenderness and pain in the veins under the skin
  • Redness, swelling, pain

Associated Risk

Possible progression to deep vein thrombosis

For More Information

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

Definition

Veins are blood vessels that bring blood from the body back to the heart. Venous insufficiency occurs when these veins no longer function efficiently due to abnormally functioning vein valves.

Common Symptoms

  • Leg or ankle swelling
  • Skin ulceration
  • Varicose veins
  • “Heavy” discomfort in leg muscles

Associated Risk

  • Deep vein thrombosis
  • Damage to skin or development of wounds
  • Decreased quality of life

For More Information

Varicose Veins

Definition

An enlargement of the veins under the skin. Varicose veins can be a sign of a more serious vein disease, but are usually a consequence of family history or age.

Common Symptoms

  • Cosmetic concerns
  • Bulging, tortuous veins under the skin
  • Pain or bleeding

Associated Risk

  • Generally no risk to life or limb
  • Deep vein thrombosis
  • Damage to skin or development of wounds
  • Decreased quality of life

For More Information

Quick Finder
Scheduling an Appointment
Learn how to make an appointment at MHI™.

Make An Appointment - Learn More