Vein Injuries

The vascular system is composed of veins and arteries. Arteries distribute blood throughout the body, and veins carry blood back to the heart and lungs to be re-oxygenated. Although smaller vein injuries might not require treatment, injuries to large veins can be life-threatening.

Causes

• The most common causes of injury to veins is blunt force trauma, such as a blow received during a accident or contact sports. Blood clots can develop in veins from extended periods of immobilization, such as after suffering injuries like an ankle sprain.

Minor

• According to Leiden University in the Netherlands, even minor leg injuries can lead to an increased risk of blood clots. This can be a serious condition if a clot breaks loose and enters the heart or lungs, causing an embolism (blockage). Phlebitis is another type of blockage. This occurs when a clot remains in place at the injury site and impedes blood flow, says WebMD.

Major

• Serious injuries to the larger veins, such as the jugular veins in the neck and the portal veins in the abdominal region, can cause excessive internal hemorrhaging. If not treated through surgery, the injury can cause death from blood loss.

Symptoms

• Symptoms are generally limited to bruising and swelling. This is caused by the accumulation of blood in the area of the injury.