What are Blood Vessels? How Do They Work?

Medically reviewed by Andrew Harding, DO, on October 30, 2025

The circulatory system plays an essential role in sustaining our bodies: delivering oxygen and nutrients to every cell and removing waste. At the center of this system are blood vessels: arteries, veins, and capillaries. Together, they form a network that keeps you alive, active, and well.

When veins do not work properly, serious problems can arise. Varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) are common conditions that many people dismiss until symptoms worsen. The good news is that treatment options today are office-based, fast, and highly effective.

We consulted with Dr. Andrew Harding, DO, lead vein physician at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) in Grapevine, Texas. 

📅 Schedule a visit with Dr. Harding at CVR in Grapevine, TX – CLICK HERE.

👉If you are experiencing leg swelling, heaviness, or visible varicose veins, the specialists at CVR can help. Schedule a consultation to learn about advanced treatments that restore circulation and comfort.

📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or book online HERE 

What Are Blood Vessels?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the human body contains about 60,000 miles of blood vessels. To put it into perspective, that’s enough to circle the Earth more than twice. These vessels fall into three main categories:

• Arteries: Strong, muscular vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart. Their thick walls withstand the high pressure of blood being pumped directly from the heart.
• Veins: Vessels that return oxygen-poor blood back to the heart. Valves inside the veins keep blood flowing in one direction. Some veins are closer to the skin’s surface, which is why varicose veins often become visible.
• Capillaries: The smallest and most delicate vessels. Here, oxygen and nutrients move from blood into tissues, while waste products flow back into the bloodstream.

Each type of vessel is essential for circulation. When veins stop working correctly, the entire system is affected.

Why Vein Valves Matter

Valves in the veins prevent blood from flowing backward. Healthy valves keep blood moving steadily toward the heart, especially in the legs, where gravity works against circulation.

When valves weaken or fail, blood can pool in the legs. This condition is called venous reflux or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

Symptoms of CVI and Problem Veins

When veins stop working normally, the body often sends warning signs that can be seen and felt in the legs, including:

• Leg swelling or heaviness, especially after standing or sitting all day
• Varicose or spider veins
• Aching, throbbing, or cramping in the legs
• Itching or burning sensations
• Skin discoloration near the ankles (red, brown, or purple)
• Slow-healing sores or ulcers

These symptoms often begin mildly and worsen over time. These changes may seem like simple fatigue or part of getting older, but they are important warning signs of a vascular condition that needs attention.

Risk Factors for Vein Disease

Several factors increase the risk of developing CVI or varicose veins:

• Age: Vein valves naturally weaken with time.
• Family history: Genetics strongly influence risk.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased blood volume place extra stress on veins.
• Obesity: Extra weight puts added pressure on the legs.
• Sedentary lifestyle: Long periods of sitting or standing slow blood flow.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop varicose veins due to hormonal influences.

While you can’t change your genetics or age, you can still support your circulation by staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and elevating your legs after long days.

Varicose Veins and CVI: Professional Treatment Options

Once an invasive surgery, vein stripping has been replaced by quick, minimally invasive office treatments that usually take less than an hour. Here are some of the most common outpatient vein treatment options:

1. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency ablation is considered the gold standard for treating chronic venous insufficiency. A thin catheter delivers gentle heat to close diseased veins, redirecting blood to healthier vessels. Success rates are high, and recovery is fast.

2. VenaSeal

VenaSeal uses a medical adhesive to seal the vein without heat or multiple injections. Most patients return to normal activities right away, and compression stockings are often not needed.

3. ClariVein

ClariVein gently closes the vein using medication and a rotating tip, without heat, reducing the risk of nerve injury in sensitive areas.

4. Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy

Foam sclerotherapy involves injecting a foam solution into the vein under ultrasound guidance. The foam collapses the vein walls, which the body absorbs over time. This option is especially effective for both varicose and spider veins.

5. Laser Ablation

Laser ablation uses targeted laser energy inside the vein to seal it shut, providing another effective and minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins.

6. Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Ambulatory phlebectomy removes large, bulging veins through tiny skin incisions. It is often combined with RFA or VenaSeal for complete results and provides immediate cosmetic improvement.

What Can Patients Expect?

• Procedures typically take 30 to 60 minutes
• Only local anesthesia is used
• Patients can return to regular activity the same day
• Many patients notice comfort and appearance improvements immediately

Lifestyle Tips to Support Healthy Circulation

Professional vein care is essential, but simple daily habits can also go a long way in keeping your veins healthy. These lifestyle changes can also help improve circulation:

• Exercise regularly
• Elevate legs above heart level after long days
• Use compression stockings if your doctor recommends them
• Avoid sitting or standing still for long periods without breaks
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce vein pressure
• Stay hydrated to support smooth blood flow

Why Prioritize Vein Health?

Healthy veins improve more than appearance. They prevent complications, reduce pain, and help you stay active and energized. Treating vein problems also boosts confidence by smoothing the look of your legs.

Take the First Step Toward Relief with the Care and Support of CVR’s Experts

If you notice leg swelling, varicose veins, or other signs of chronic venous insufficiency, now is the time to act. Vein disease is progressive, meaning it worsens with time, but veintreatment is quick and effective.

👉 At CVR, our board-certified physicians specialize in advanced, minimally invasive vein treatments. Schedule a consultation and let us help you restore healthy circulation, reduce discomfort, and feel confident in your legs again.

📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or book online HERE 

CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.