How Vein Specialists Classify Venous Disease

Originally posted in December 2021 on Healthy Cells Magazine.


Venous disease can take many forms, from spider veins to venous ulcers. Here’s how to spot the different stages and determine the most effective treatments for each.


More than 30 million people suffer from some form of venous insufficiency, but not all display the same symptoms. Varicose veins are the most common sign of this condition, which occurs when the valves in the veins struggle to pump blood back up to the heart.


Although vein problems are common in the legs and thighs, they are unique in everyone.  Some might not have any visible abnormal veins. Some might have only spider veins and others might have spider and varicose veins. Or even worse, some may have an open sore (an ulcer) on their leg. In addition to being unsightly, vein problems are unhealthy and can cause a whole variety of symptoms. This makes it difficult to describe vein disorders in the scope of this article and discuss which treatments might be best for the various types of vein issues.


In order to decrease confusion and have a standard way to talk about vein problems, a classification system was created that is called CEAP.  This acronym stands for:


  • Clinical – what the patient’s veins look like
  • Etiology – whether the problem is inherited or not
  • Anatomy – which veins are involved
  • Pathophysiology – in which direction the blood is flowing (either normal or abnormal flow) and whether blood flow is blocked.


According to the CEAP classification system, there are seven stages of venous disease. Some types cause mild discomfort, while others result in severe pain. Below are the signs and symptoms of each, along with treatment options to manage all types of venous insufficiency.


The 7 Stages of Venous Disease


CO: In this stage, there are no signs of venous diseases. Generally, this means that the veins are functioning normally and able to return blood to the heart.


C1: Spider Veins. Also known as telangiectasia or reticular veins, these red, blue, and purple veins rise to the surface, typically on the legs, upper thighs, and around the ankles, in a tangled pattern. When found on the legs, spider veins may indicate “hidden” underlying venous disease.


C2: Varicose Veins. When blood doesn’t pump back to the heart because the valves in the veins are under too much pressure, the veins start to swell on the surface of the skin. Varicose Veins often cause the legs to ache, cramp, and itch. Many patients also report a heavy feeling in the affected area.


C3: Edema. Venous insufficiency may lead to swelling in the legs. In fact, it’s the most common cause of lower extremity edema in adults over 50. To manage the edema, the underlying cause must be treated. Certain therapies can help to bring down the swelling, such as compression garments.


C4: Skin Changes. Venous disease can change the texture, color, and overall look of the skin. Eczema and discolored blotches are two signs that venous insufficiency has altered the skin.


C5: Healed Venous Ulcer. Due to excess pressure on the veins and restricted blood flow, tissue may die and form an open ulcer. Once flow is returned to normal, the ulcer tends to heal on its own.


C6: Active Venous Ulcer: Though only seen in 1% of the population, active venous ulcers can be debilitating for the sufferer. Prolonged compression therapy, however, is useful in treating the condition. Fortunately, if the patient goes through early endovenous ablation and compression therapy, the wound often heals faster.


The different stages of venous disease respond best to a customized approach based on the patient’s unique symptoms. Fortunately, today’s patients have many choices of non-invasive procedures. Wearing compression stockings and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing can reduce the symptoms of venous disease but won’t resolve the underlying venous disease. 


Schedule an evaluation at the ONLY FULL-TIME Vein Clinic in downstate Illinois.  During your initial consultation, one of their doctors will determine the underlying cause of your leg discomfort, explain your treatment options, and then guide you through every step of your procedure and recovery. Call The Vein Specialists at (309) 862-4000 or visit them online at www.ILveins.com. They have convenient locations at 3302 Gerig Drive in Bloomington or 2011 Rock Street, Suite D2 in Peru.


June 26, 2025
Enjoy beach days without compromising vein health! Learn expert tips on managing spider veins and varicose veins during summer, including sun protection, hydration, cooling techniques, and staying active. Keep your legs healthy and comfortable at the beach with The Vein Specialists.
June 26, 2025
Fourth of July is a beloved American tradition, a day filled with celebrations, barbecues, fireworks, and family gatherings. While these activities are enjoyable, extended periods of standing, sitting, or exposure to heat can challenge individuals managing spider veins or varicose veins. This Independence Day, celebrate comfortably and healthily with vein-friendly ideas designed specifically for your circulatory well-being. Vein-Friendly Outdoor Activities Outdoor games are a staple of Fourth of July celebrations. However, some activities may strain your veins, especially if they involve long periods of standing. Instead, opt for low-impact games such as bocce ball, croquet, or gentle lawn games like cornhole. These games allow movement without excessive strain or extended standing. Consider organizing a family-friendly scavenger hunt around your home or yard. This activity encourages gentle movement, enhances circulation, and keeps guests of all ages entertained without undue strain. Stay Hydrated to Support Your Veins Proper hydration is crucial for managing vein health, especially during warm, outdoor celebrations. Dehydration thickens blood and impairs circulation, causing discomfort and swelling. Provide plenty of water and healthy beverages throughout the day, avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can further dehydrate your body. Set up a hydration station can encourage guests to stay hydrated in a refreshing way. Smart Seating and Leg Elevation Extended sitting or standing during Fourth of July celebrations can negatively impact your veins by restricting circulation and causing blood to pool. Encourage frequent movement breaks and ensure comfortable seating options that promote good posture and allow guests to elevate their legs slightly. Provide footstools or outdoor ottomans for guests to elevate their legs comfortably. If attending an event away from home, bring a portable footrest or cushion for elevating legs periodically throughout the day. Cool Down and Wear Compression Garments Fourth of July celebrations are often outdoors and can involve extended sun exposure. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and wide-brimmed hats for additional protection and comfort. Compression garments are particularly helpful during warm-weather events, providing gentle pressure that improves circulation and reduces swelling associated with spider veins and varicose veins. Look for summer-friendly compression garments in patriotic colors or festive patterns to blend seamlessly into your holiday attire. Plan Active Breaks Break up extended periods of sitting or standing with brief walks or stretches. Encourage your guests to participate in short, leisurely walks around the neighborhood, park, or yard. Regular movement boosts circulation, reduces swelling, and helps maintain comfort throughout the celebration. Consider scheduling an active intermission, such as a brief neighborhood parade or a casual group stroll after the barbecue meal. This enjoyable activity not only supports vein health but also adds a festive communal touch to your event. Watch Fireworks Comfortably When watching fireworks, avoid standing in one spot for extended periods. Bring comfortable chairs or blankets that allow you to elevate your legs and shift positions easily. If you anticipate crowded or lengthy events, consider positioning yourself closer to exits to enable short walks or breaks as needed. Conclusion Independence Day celebrations should be enjoyable for everyone, including those managing vein health issues. By incorporating vein-friendly activities, staying hydrated, planning comfortable seating, using compression garments, and ensuring regular movement breaks, you can enjoy the festivities without discomfort. If you're experiencing persistent vein symptoms or want personalized vein health guidance, schedule a free consultation with The Vein Specialists. Celebrate comfortably this Fourth of July and keep your veins healthy all summer long!
May 15, 2025
Understand how summer heat affects your veins and learn effective strategies to manage vein discomfort and swelling. Get expert advice on hydration, compression stockings, and staying active to protect against varicose veins and spider veins during hot weather from The Vein Specialists.
May 15, 2025
Keep your veins healthy during summer travels with expert tips from The Vein Specialists. Discover essential strategies for hydration, movement, compression wear, and leg elevation to prevent spider veins and varicose veins during long flights or road trips.
March 28, 2025
Step into spring and enhance your vein health with regular walking! Discover how walking boosts circulation, reduces vein discomfort, and promotes overall wellness. Find helpful tips on walking routines, routes, and footwear from The Vein Specialists.
March 28, 2025
Enjoy Easter celebrations without compromising your vein health! Learn expert strategies to improve circulation during long family gatherings, including staying active, maintaining good posture, and wearing compression stockings. Keep your veins comfortable and healthy with tips from The Vein Specialists.
A woman is sitting on a brick wall in a garden picking tomatoes.
March 4, 2025
Maintain your vein health while indulging in spring gardening with our practical tips. Discover how ergonomic tools, proper posture, and regular breaks can protect your veins during gardening activities. Cultivate your garden this spring without compromising your vein health with advice from The Vein Specialists.
A person is walking barefoot through a field of flowers.
March 4, 2025
Revitalize your vein health this spring with our expert tips on exercise, hydration, and diet adjustments. Learn how to transition your vein care routine from winter to spring to boost circulation and strengthen your veins. Get ready for the active months ahead with The Vein Specialists.
February 7, 2025
February is not only the month of love but also American Heart Month, a time to bring attention to cardiovascular health. While the heart might be the focus, it's important to remember the connection between heart health and vein health. Improving your cardiovascular system benefits your entire circulatory system, including your veins. Understanding the Connection The health of your veins is directly linked to the health of your heart. Veins are responsible for returning deoxygenated blood back to the heart, and any inefficiencies in this process can lead to venous disorders such as spider veins and varicose veins. Poor cardiovascular health can exacerbate these issues by putting additional strain on the venous system. Cardiovascular Exercises for Vein Health Engaging in cardiovascular exercises can strengthen both your heart and veins. Activities like brisk walking, jogging, and cycling improve heart function and circulation, which in turn enhances venous return and reduces the burden on your veins. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week as recommended by heart and vascular health experts. Diet: What's Good for the Heart is Good for the Veins A heart-healthy diet is also vein-healthy. Foods that are low in saturated fats and high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, help improve blood flow and decrease the risk of arterial plaque. Foods that reduce swelling in your legs will reduce vein issues and may improve their function. Also, reducing salt intake can prevent swelling in the legs due to water retention. Managing Blood Pressure and Cholesterol High blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage your arteries and veins over time, leading to serious health issues. Managing these with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication if prescribed, is crucial for maintaining both heart and vein health. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor these conditions and prevent complications. The Role of Hydration Staying hydrated is vital for maintaining good circulation and healthy blood pressure, which benefits your whole circulatory system. Remain hydrated and aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, more if you are active or live in a hot climate. Conclusion This Heart Health Month, take steps to boost both your cardiac and venous health. By engaging in regular cardiovascular exercise, eating a heart-healthy diet, managing blood pressure and cholesterol, and staying hydrated, you can support your heart and veins. Remember, a strong heart leads to strong veins, and taking care of one benefits the entire circulatory system. Take this opportunity to commit to a healthier lifestyle that will keep your heart and veins in excellent condition year-round.
February 7, 2025
Show some love to your legs this Valentine's Day with our expert vein health tips. Discover exercises, diet advice, and self-care practices to enhance circulation and prevent vein issues. Celebrate with healthy veins and learn how to pamper your legs with The Vein Specialists.
More Posts