Peripheral venous disorders refer to defects or damage in the peripheral veins, which carry oxygen-poor blood away from the extremities (such as the hands and feet) and to the heart to receive oxygen. (This is different from peripheral arterial disease, which refers to problems with the peripheral arteries).

Peripheral venous disorders include thrombophlebitis, varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. Some of these conditions (e.g., a form of thrombophlebitis called superficial vein thrombosis) are generally harmless. However, other conditions (e.g., deep vein thrombosis) can be life-threatening.

In general, treatment for chronic peripheral venous disorders involves exercising the affected area (e.g., the legs) and elevating and bandaging the area as much as possible (e.g., compression therapy). Often, patients with acute venous disorders will also need to take anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) as an initial treatment for their venous blood clots. Medications and surgeries are also available, if necessary.