The Vein Clinic at McLaren Northern Michigan is dedicated to reducing pain, limitation of mobility, infections or even early mortality from vein disease, which can impact your quality of life. The Vein Clinic sees patients in Petoskey, Gaylord, and St. Ignace.
What is Vein Disease?
The most common vein disease is Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). CVI is a progressive medical condition in which the leg veins fail to pump blood back to the heart, causing blood to pool in the legs and the veins to swell. Venous insufficiency is often misunderstood as purely a cosmetic issue, but it can progress to more serious conditions if left untreated.
Vein disease has many faces that require a prepared mind to consider all possibilities when a patient presents with lower extremity complaints, especially in the absence of classic skin findings. Venous disease may also overlap with heart failure and peripheral arterial disease. Evaluation and management requires use of imaging techniques and interventions familiar to cardiologist. However, the best outcomes for patients with vein disease can ultimately be achieved with close cooperation between primary physician and cardiologist.
- Family history of varicose veins
- Increasing age for both men and women
- Pregnancy
- Occupations requiring prolonged standing
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Trauma
- Smoking
The Vein Clinic of McLaren Northern Michigan can evaluate and manage venous disease as well as evaluate and treat commonly associated disorders. Patients are screened using duplex ultrasound testing conducted by a Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) or sonographer. The ultrasound measures speed and blood flow of blood vessels through leg veins. The ultrasound will produce an image of vein structure that offers a visual analysis of veins, valve damage and vein obstructions.
Patients can be referred by a physician, or can be a self-referral. Many insurance companies require the use of prescribed compression stockings for 3 months before treatments can begin. Your primary care physician or the vein clinic can assist with this requirement. Compression socks are available through VitalCare of McLaren Northern Michigan.
If you are experiencing any of the common symptoms below, it's time to ask your physician to refer you to the experts at The Vein Clinic of McLaren Northern Michigan.
- Varicose veins
- Swelling in the lower legs and ankles, especially after extended periods of standing
- Pain, aching or heaviness in the legs
- Restless legs
- Skin discoloration of the legs
- Ulcers, open wounds or sores
- Lightheaded upon standing
Ask your physician for a referral or call (231) 487-5888 for information. Our commitment is to work with you and your physician to provide the highest standard of specialty care. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.