Painful veins in your legs may be a symptom of serious health problems, according to Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center officials. Yet, officials said, many people defer treatment, thinking that varicose veins are merely cosmetic, and they don't want to appear vain. Others grow accustomed to the swelling and pain because their condition progresses slowly, creating a "new normal."
Interested persons may learn more about vein conditions and treatment options from Dr. Ross Bengtson and have an initial screening during a complimentary educational seminar from 9-11 a.m. on Sept. 5, at the Crosslake Community Center, located at 14126 Daggett Pine Road in Crosslake. Space is limited, so interested persons should register by calling 828-7414 or online at EssentiaHealth.org/VeinServices.
"Vein conditions are not solely a cosmetic problem," according to Bengtson, general surgeon at Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center and Clinics.
Swollen or discolored veins can be symptoms of other medical conditions that need to be treated to avoid serious complications, he explained.
"If your legs are swollen, fatigue easy, or have unsightly or painful leg veins, you should talk to your primary care physician or a surgeon experienced with treating veins," Bengston said.
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Venous diseases are caused by poorly functioning valves within veins. This inefficiency causes spider veins - red or blue web-like veins on the skin's surface. Untreated, they can grow into varicose veins, which appear as bulges on the leg's surface. The disease can progress to include swelling, pain, clotting, ulceration and skin inflammation.
An additional evening seminar and screening will be held on Thursday, Sept. 18, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes located at 6967 Lake Forest Road in Baxter. Those interested may also register for this session at 218-828-7414 or at EssentiaHealth.org/VeinServices.
