What is vein and vascular care?
Your vascular system includes arteries, veins and other vessels that carry blood throughout your body. A healthy vascular system (also called your circulatory system) delivers oxygen and nutrients to every part of your body while removing waste products.
Vascular conditions can occur when blood flow is restricted or blocked, which can lead to pain, swelling or more serious health concerns.
Common vein and vascular conditions include:
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are large, bulging veins visible under the skin’s surface, often in the legs. They can be a sign of venous insufficiency, where veins don’t pump blood effectively. This can cause blood to pool, which can lead to swelling, discomfort or skin discoloration.
Spider veins
Spider veins are small, web-like blood vessels near the skin’s surface. These veins can appear red, blue or purple and may signal an underlying vein disorder.
Venous ulcers
Venous ulcers are open sores on the legs caused by poor blood flow from an underlying venous condition. These ulcers can be painful, slow to heal and may become infected without proper care.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a chronic condition that develops when fatty deposits build up in the arteries, restricting blood flow. It commonly affects the legs and feet but can also affect the arms or neck.
Carotid artery disease (CAD)
Carotid artery disease (CAD) occurs when plaque builds up in the carotid arteries, the two large blood vessels on either side of the neck that supply blood to the brain. If left untreated, CAD can increase the risk of stroke.
Mount Nittany Health offers advanced treatments for CAD, including TCAR (trans-carotid artery revascularization), a minimally invasive procedure performed through our partnership with Penn State Health. TCAR offers smaller incisions, less time under anesthesia, and faster recovery.
When should you see a vascular specialist?
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to see a vascular specialist:
- Swelling in your ankles or lower legs
- Pain, cramping or heaviness in your legs
- Changes in skin appearance, such as itching, redness, burning or discoloration
- Visible varicose or spider veins
- Open sores or ulcers on your legs that are slow to heal
- Restless legs, cramping, weakness or muscle spasms
Treating vein and vascular conditions
The vascular specialists at Mount Nittany Health offer a full range of minimally invasive, outpatient treatment options for venous and arterial conditions.
Vein treatments
- Venaseal: A medical adhesive is used to seal diseased veins, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins
- Radiofrequency ablation: Heat is delivered through a small catheter to collapse and seal problem veins, improving circulation
- Clarivein: Under ultrasound guidance, a rotating wire and medication close diseased veins, restoring blood flow
- Sclerotherapy (Asclera): A series of injections that improve the appearance of spider veins, with no anesthesia and minimal recovery time
Arterial disease treatments
- TCAR: A minimally invasive procedure for CAD that reverses blood flow in the carotid artery to remove plaque and restore proper circulation
- Angioplasty: A small balloon is inserted into the artery and gently expands to open blockages
- Stenting: A minimally invasive treatment where a mesh tube is placed in the artery to keep it open and restore blood flow.
Lifestyle modifications
Making healthy changes can significantly improve vascular health. Your vascular and vein specialist may recommend:
- Managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains
- Staying active with regular exercise
- Quitting smoking, which damages veins and arteries
Diagnosing and testing for vein and vascular conditions
In order to diagnose your condition, your vein and vascular specialist will begin with a thorough evaluation to understand your symptoms and health history. Diagnosis may include:
- Ankle-brachial index (ABI): A noninvasive test comparing blood pressure in your arms and legs to screen for PAD
- Ultrasound: Noninvasive imaging that provides detailed pictures of blood flow and identifies blockages or narrowed arteries
- Angiography: A minimally invasive procedure where a small catheter is used to inject dye into your blood vessels, allowing X-rays to detect blockages or abnormalities
Vein and vascular care at Mount Nittany Health
Our specialists are committed to providing exceptional vein and vascular care. What makes us different?
- Expert care: Our vascular specialists are trained in minimally invasive procedures to help you heal faster and achieve better outcomes.
- Minimally invasive treatment options: We perform may office-based treatments, minimizing downtime and helping you get back to your daily routine.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Our state-of-the-art cardiovascular pavilion at Mount Nittany Medical Center features precise imaging and monitoring technology, and flexible labs for a wide range of treatments — all in one location, reducing the need for travel or additional appointments.
- Comprehensive approach: Our vascular specialists meet you where you are, addressing your immediate needs while focusing on prevention for long-term vascular health.