Swollen legs can make shoes feel tight, leave sock marks around your ankles, or create a heavy feeling that builds as the day goes on. Sometimes the reason is easy to trace, such as heat, travel, or hours spent on your feet. Other times, lower-leg swelling can be a sign that your veins are not moving blood as well as they should.
For people in the Los Angeles area, vein ultrasound at L.A. Vein Center in Sherman Oaks can help evaluate circulation concerns. Our practice is led by Dr. Larisse Lee, a board-certified vascular and general surgeon who has also been credentialed by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography and is a Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation.
How Vein Problems Can Cause Swelling
Healthy leg veins move blood upward, back toward the heart. When valves inside the veins become weak or damaged, blood can move backward and collect in the lower legs. This is called venous reflux, and it can contribute to ankle tightness, pressure, aching, and visible vein changes. An exam can help determine whether your veins are contributing or another issue needs attention.
Swelling related to vein disease may:
- Appear around the ankles or lower legs
- Feel worse after long periods of sitting or standing
- Improve somewhat with leg elevation
- Come with pressure, cramping, itching, or tired legs
- Occur near visible varicose veins or spider veins
Why Ultrasound Can Be Helpful
A physical exam can reveal visible vein changes, but it cannot always show how blood is flowing underneath the skin. At L.A. Vein Center, we use ultrasound imaging to evaluate the location and severity of venous insufficiency. Ultrasound can also help detect deep vein thrombosis, which is a blood clot in a deep vein.
During a vein ultrasound, sound waves create real-time images of blood flow and vein structure. This information helps our team understand what is happening inside the legs and which treatment options may make sense.
Swelling and Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are often linked with swelling, lower-leg heaviness, fatigue, itching, cramps, and aching. In some cases, untreated venous insufficiency may contribute to more serious problems, including skin changes or leg ulcers.
Talk With a Vein Specialist in Sherman Oaks
New swelling, worsening symptoms, or puffiness on only one side is a reason to get checked. Our team at L.A. Vein Center can help determine whether a vein problem is contributing to your symptoms. Use our online form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Larisse Lee in Sherman Oaks, CA, or call 818-325-0400.