09/04/2026
π©Ί DID YOU KNOW?- The final series is here!
Series #5 of 5
Not All Leg Symptoms Come From the Same Place
Your legs depend on three different systems working together: your arteries, veins, and lymphatic system.
Although problems with each can cause leg discomfort or swelling, the symptoms can look very different.
π΅ VENOUS- Blood Has Trouble Getting Back Up
Your veins return blood from your legs back toward your heart.
Common signs of venous problems may include:
β’ Leg swelling, often worse later in the day
β’ Aching, heaviness, or tired legs
β’ Varicose veins
β’ Skin discoloration around the ankles
β’ Itching or skin changes
β’ Venous ulcers, often near the ankle
β’ Symptoms that may improve with elevation
π΄ ARTERIAL- Blood Has Trouble Getting Down
Your arteries deliver oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your legs and feet.
Common signs of arterial problems may include:
β’ Leg cramping or pain with walking
β’ Pain that improves with rest
β’ Cold feet or toes
β’ Pale, bluish, or abnormal skin color
β’ Weak or decreased pulses
β’ Slow-healing wounds
β’ Pain in the feet or toes at rest in more advanced disease
π’ LYMPHATIC- Fluid Has Trouble Getting Out
Your lymphatic system helps remove excess fluid from your tissues.
Common signs of lymphatic problems may include:
β’ Persistent swelling
β’ Swelling involving the foot and toes
β’ Tightness or heaviness
β’ Thickened or hardened skin over time
β’ Changes in skin texture
β’ Recurrent skin infections in some patients
Why does knowing the difference matter?
Leg swelling, aching, heaviness, skin changes, or wounds donβt automatically mean βpoor circulation.β
The cause may be venous, arterial, lymphatic or sometimes a combination.
Vascular ultrasound can evaluate the arteries and veins and help determine whether a vascular condition may be contributing to your symptoms.
π Listen to your legs. They may be telling you something.
EVS Imaging
Comprehensive Vascular Diagnostic Ultrasound
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Educational information only. Symptoms should be evaluated by an appropriate healthcare provider.