Medically reviewed by Evan Harris, MD, DVIR, DABVLM, RPVI, on April 16, 2025
March Madness 2025 arrived with some unexpected headlines. Two high-profile NBA players, Victor Wembanyama and Damian Lillard, were sidelined with vein-related conditions, drawing attention to a health issue most people associate with aging, not elite athletes.
Ironically, the college basketball championship series took place during Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Awareness Month. This annual initiative spotlights the efforts of the National Blood Clot Alliance (Stop the Clot) to educate clinicians and the public about the risks, signs, and management of venous thromboembolism (VTE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE).
To help listeners of WTIC 1080, a Hartford, Connecticut radio station, make sense of the breaking news as it relates to the risks of deep vein thrombosis, host Brian Shactman invited Dr. Evan Harris, a leading vein expert from Center for Vein Restoration, for a live interview on the popular Brian and Company morning show.
Dr. Harris is a board-certified vein specialist with advanced training in venous and lymphatic medicine. Renowned for delivering personalized, minimally invasive treatments that help patients feel and look their best, often with little to no downtime, Dr. Harris’s patients can expect:
✔ Fast, effective outpatient procedures
✔ Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare & Medicaid
✔ Supportive staff who prioritize your comfort and care
📆To schedule an appointment with Dr. Harris in Glastonbury, CT, CLICK HERE
📆To schedule an appointment with Dr. Harris in Middletown, CT, CLICK HERE
📆To schedule an appointment with any of Center for Vein Restoration's 110+ vein clinics nationwide, CLICK HERE
Radio Host:
"Dr. Harris, thank you for joining us. We were surprised when we heard that these young, world-class athletes were dealing with vein problems. Isn’t that something that mostly affects older people?"
Dr. Evan Harris:
"That’s a common assumption, but it’s not quite right. Deep vein thrombosis can affect anyone, regardless of age, athletic ability, or other factors. I’ve seen patients in their 20s who’ve had clots, and I’ve also treated people in their 70s. It’s more common than people realize."
Radio Host:
"Let’s back up. For those who don’t know, what exactly is deep vein thrombosis?"
Dr. Harris:
"Great question. DVT is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the body, most often in the legs. These deep veins function like highways, carrying blood back to the heart and lungs. If one gets blocked by a clot, that can cause swelling, pain—and in severe cases, the clot can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, which is life-threatening."
Radio Host:
"Is that why DVT can be so dangerous? Because of the risk of it moving to the lungs?"
Dr. Harris:
"Exactly. That’s why we take it very seriously. Missing a DVT diagnosis can be deadly, so it’s better to over-evaluate than to overlook it."
Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), the nation’s largest physician-led vein practice, offers a convenient DVT rule-out service. This fast evaluation of suspected blood clots includes:
Call 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388) to get peace of mind—or life-saving treatment.
Radio Host:
"So what are the warning signs of DVT?"
Dr. Harris:
"The most common symptoms are leg pain and swelling, especially if one leg is more swollen than the other. The skin may feel warm to the touch or appear red or discolored. People often notice it after a long period of immobility—after surgery, an illness, or even a long flight."
Radio Host:
"Let’s talk about treatment. Are vein procedures usually covered by insurance?"
Dr. Harris:
"Yes—most vein treatments, including those for DVT and varicose veins, are covered by insurance. At Center for Vein Restoration, we treat both deep vein issues, such as DVT, and superficial vein conditions, like varicose veins, which also impact quality of life.
Radio Host:
"Wait—varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic issue?"
Dr. Harris:
"They can be. Superficial vein disease can cause night cramps, restless legs, swelling, and aching.
While it may not be life-threatening like DVT, it can really affect your day-to-day life. And yes, those treatments are usually covered too."
To schedule a vein evaluation at Center for Vein Restoration, call 240-965-3915 and a Patient Services Representative will assist you. Prefer to schedule online? Use the link below
Radio Host:
"You mentioned that DVT is common even in younger people. Why does that happen?"
Dr. Harris:
"Sometimes, it’s due to injury, like a sprained ankle or broken bone that affects blood flow. At other times, immobility following surgery or illness is the trigger. Genetics, certain medications, and even height can play a role. There’s some evidence that very tall people, like pro basketball players, may be more prone."
Radio Host:
"If someone gets diagnosed with DVT, is it a lifelong problem?"
Dr. Harris:
"Not at all. Many people recover fully and go on to live very active lives. In fact, there are professional athletes who returned after DVT and had amazing seasons—one even became the NBA’s Most Improved Player."
Radio Host:
"That’s encouraging. So where can people turn if they’re worried they might have vein problems?"
Dr. Harris:
"Start with your primary care doctor, who can refer you to a vein specialist. Or you can contact Center for Vein Restoration directly. We’re a nationwide network specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of vein conditions. We use ultrasound to scan for clots and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Radio Host:
"I had a vein procedure recently myself—after years of ankle pain and swelling from an old injury—and it made a big difference. I’m still healing, but the swelling is already going down."
Dr. Harris:
"That’s great to hear. It’s essential that people know help is available. You don’t have to live with swollen legs or aching veins. We can help people get back on their feet, literally."
Radio Host:
"Any final thoughts for our listeners?"
Dr. Harris:
"I just want people to know that vein health matters—and not just for seniors. If you’re dealing with leg pain, swelling, or cramps, don’t ignore it. Talk to your doctor or reach out to Center for Vein Restoration. We’re here to help."
Call 240-965-3915 to speak with a helpful Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms of vein disease—leg swelling, aching, or visible varicose veins—don’t brush them off. It’s not “just aging,” and it’s not something you have to live with. Effective outpatient treatments are available that can be completed in an hour or less in a comfortable office setting.
Most primary care doctors are familiar with the Center for Vein Restoration and can refer you for an evaluation. You can also reach out directly HERE or by calling 240-965-3915. We’re here to help you feel better, avoid serious health problems, and get back on your feet.
Because at the end of the day, whether you’re a top athlete, a busy parent, or your veins deserve attention. And so do you.
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