September is National Vascular Health Awareness Month
Most of us tend to brush off occasional leg pain, swelling, or fatigue, blaming it on long days, aging, or too much time on our feet. But what if those subtle symptoms were actually early warning signs of something deeper, like poor circulation, venous insufficiency, or even cardiovascular issues?
At Chuback Vein Center, we believe your legs are more than just your foundation. They’re often the first place your body shows signs of vascular strain. In honor of National Vascular Health Awareness Month, let’s explore what your legs might be trying to tell you about your heart and vein health.
It might start with a dull ache, a feeling of heaviness, or cramps in your calves after standing or walking. While easy to overlook, these are common signs of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI); a condition where the valves in your leg veins don’t function properly, causing blood to pool in your lower extremities.
These symptoms can get worse throughout the day, especially if you sit or stand for long periods. They're not just a sign of being "out of shape", they're your body's way of signaling that your circulatory system may not be working as efficiently as it should.
Leg or ankle swelling, especially if it’s consistent or worsens at the end of the day, can point to vein valve dysfunction or even early heart failure. When veins can’t efficiently return blood to the heart, fluid can leak into surrounding tissues, leading to edema (swelling).
If you notice:
…it might be time to schedule a vascular screening. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s a sign of your circulatory system struggling to do its job.
Discoloration, dryness, itching, or thinning of the skin on your lower legs and ankles are all red flags for poor circulation. In more advanced cases of CVI, you might notice:
These symptoms occur when blood flow is restricted and nutrients can’t properly reach the skin. Left untreated, these changes can lead to infection and long-term tissue damage.
Your veins and heart work as a team to keep blood moving efficiently throughout your body. When your veins are under stress or failing, your heart often has to work harder to compensate.
Recent research has shown that individuals with untreated venous insufficiency are more likely to develop:
In short: vein health is heart health. The earlier you recognize the signs, the more proactive you can be in preventing future complications.
If you've experienced any of the following, it's time to listen to your legs—and your gut—and speak to a vascular specialist:
At Chuback Vein Center, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to assess your vascular health and create a customized treatment plan—ranging from lifestyle changes to minimally invasive procedures that get you back to feeling your best.
Your legs do more than carry you—they communicate vital information about your vascular and heart health. Instead of ignoring discomfort or chalking it up to age or fatigue, take the first step in understanding what your body is trying to tell you.
This September, in honor of National Vascular Health Awareness Month, make a commitment to prioritize your vein health. Early detection is key, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to listen to your legs? Schedule your vascular screening at Chuback Vein Center today.
We invite you to become a part of the Chuback Vein Center family. We are confident in our ability to restore your health and wellness.
