Vein disease sounds like something gruesome and rare, but it really isn’t that rare, and it doesn’t always start out gruesome. Vein disease affects one in three Americans over the age of 45 to some degree or another.
Many times, sufferers of vein disease experience minor symptoms in the beginning and write them off. However, as these symptoms progress, they can can become more serious – and even life-threatening if they aren’t treated. This is why, at Vein Clinic of Greater Kansas City, we always preach the importance of being aware of symptoms and seeking medical advice at the earliest sign of a problem.
One of our patients is a great example of how vein disease progresses, and why seeking treatment early is critical to your recovery and the best outcome. Here’s the story of John Smith*.
John Smith’s Vein Disease Story
John has suffered with ulcers on his legs for eight years and has had a history of Deep Vein Thrombosis in his right leg. He downplayed his symptoms for years before seeking help. When he finally visited two or three different vein clinics, he was unable to receive the treatment he needed. The only treatment they provided him was a compression hose.
Frustrated, he finally saw a wound clinic. They tried to wrap the ulcer on his lower right leg area without success. There, he was told he might have to get the lower portion of his leg amputated. John was not satisfied with this diagnosis and decided to seek another opinion. That’s when he came to see us.
After a brief consultation, we were able to diagnose him with venous stasis ulcers. We decided to proceed with a treatment plan consisting of endovenous ablation and sclerotherapy over a time period of several months. John was immediately pleased with the success of his healed ulcers. He later appeared in a commercial for our clinic telling his story.
John is a great example of the importance of knowing your symptoms and knowing when it’s time to seek treatment. Much of John’s troubles and stress could have been avoided if he had paid better attention to his symptoms and sought treatment much earlier. Either way, we are happy that we were able to help John live a higher quality of life, and we hope we can do the same for more patients in need of help.
If you are in the same boat as John, or hope to avoid his struggles, call us today at 913-541-3377 for a consultation with our vein specialists.
* Name has been changed for privacy