MUSCATINE, Iowa–Though many do not think much about chronic vein disease, it affects a surprisingly high number of people; approximately 30 million Americans have chronic vein disease, but only about 1.9 million seek treatment. As Doctor Mark Williams, a general surgeon at UnityPoint Clinic–Surgery, explained it, many people, “just think it’s part of being older, and that unless it becomes a big problem, there isn’t anything they can do.” As someone who has treated chronic vein disease for about 17 years, Williams knows that procedures can relieve recipients’ discomfort and that non-invasive options exist. To help the community learn more about chronic vein disease, its causes, and treatments, Williams invites people to join him for his “Understanding Chronic Vein Disease” presentation at the Muscatine Community School District Administration Building (2900 Mulberry Avenue in Muscatine) on Aug. 23 at 5:30 p.m.
A free public event, Williams believes that his talk will especially interest those most likely to experience chronic vein disease, people over 50, overweight people, females, people who have had pregnancies, people who sit or stand for extended periods, and those with a family history of chronic vein disease. In his one-hour presentation, Williams will explain how circulation works, identify common symptoms of chronic Vein disease (including leg pain or heaviness, varicose veins, and swelling), make recommendations for preventing chronic vein disease, and discuss treatment options.
Often, Williams finds that people fear chronic vein disease treatments, as they believe they will involve older surgical procedures such as vein stripping. However, new non-invasive techniques create much less discomfort for patients and have less downtime. Williams has found that most insurance companies cover evaluations for chronic vein disease and treatments. In addition to making patients more comfortable, treating chronic vein disease prevents future complications, such as skin discoloration and thickening, which can progress to open wounds that heal poorly.
Doctor Mark Williams, general surgeon for UnityPoint Clinic Mulberry–Surgery. Photo courtesy of UnityPoint Health.
A free public event, UnityPoint Health encourages everyone who wants to attend to preregister online by visiting its . This ensures that all attendees have a seat when they arrive.
Williams has found that many people he treated for chronic vein disease did not realize they had it until they came to see him for another concern. “It’s easily missed because it’s not at the forefront of patients’ radar,” he observed. In addition to learning more about vein disease at the upcoming presentation, Williams welcomes anyone with symptoms to schedule an appointment with him. You can do so by calling UnityPoint Clinic Mulberry–Surgery at 563-262-4112.
