Vein Care What You Should Know About Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are often a cosmetic issue. But, the dark blue or purple, bulging veins can cause discomfort, and in some cases lead to a medical condition known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

Varicose and spider veins occur when the walls of a vein weaken and stretch over time. Center For Advanced Vein Care help control blood flow through the vein, and they work properly. Blood then backs up or pools in the weakened vein, which causes it to swell and twist. Varicose veins are close to the surface of the skin and easy for healthcare providers to see and feel during a physical examination.

When varicose veins do not respond to home treatment, it is important for patients to speak with a vein specialist to learn more about options for treating vein pain. Depending on the patient’s needs, there are several minimally-invasive treatment options to consider.

Some people experience minor aches and pains from their varicose veins, while others find the symptoms much more severe. The severity of the symptoms largely depends on the stage of the disease, and whether the varicose veins are painful or not.

A varicose vein doctor will recommend a few different treatments to help reduce or eliminate the pain and other symptoms of venous disease. Many patients find relief from a combination of these treatments, and it is helpful to discuss what might be best for each individual case with a vein specialist.

To get a better understanding of what’s going on inside the body, your vein doctor may order an ultrasound test to show pictures of the blood vessels in your legs. The results of the ultrasound will indicate if you have an enlarged vein, blood clots or if your vein valves aren’t working as they should.

Several things can contribute to the development of varicose veins, including age, genetic predisposition, pregnancy and hormone changes, and the use of birth control pills and other hormonal medications. Certain lifestyle factors also contribute to the development of varicose and spider veins, including prolonged sitting or standing for long periods of time and the wearing of tight clothing around the waistline and thighs, which can restrict blood flow and cause issues over time.

To avoid the development of new varicose or spider veins, it is a good idea to regularly elevate your feet while at home or at work. This simple action helps to reduce blood pressure in your veins, and it is a very effective way to relieve vein pain and other symptoms.

Another option to consider is wearing compression stockings. These can be purchased over-the-counter and provide the veins with gentle pressure that helps them move blood toward the heart. Regular exercise, especially brisk walking, can also improve circulation and tone calf muscles that aid in the movement of blood through the veins.

There are several treatments available to address your vein problems, including laser and radio frequency therapy, sclerotherapy, and more. Some of these minimally-invasive procedures can be performed right in your physician’s office, and most patients are able to return to their normal routines immediately following the procedure.