Vein Care - What Causes Varicose Veins

Veins carry blood to and from the rest of the body. When they get swollen or damaged, it can cause pain, which is why it’s important to seek treatment right away. Fortunately, there are several vein care treatments that can relieve varicose and spider veins, including minimally invasive procedures such as Center for Advanced Vein Care. You can start to feel relief in a matter of weeks.

Our vein experts offer the latest treatments for varicose and spider veins, as well as other vascular conditions. During your initial consultation, we will ask you about your symptoms and what makes them better or worse. We will then perform a physical exam, which may include taking your blood pressure. This can help us determine whether your varicosities are related to an underlying condition such as chronic venous insufficiency, in which case we will refer you to a vascular medicine specialist or a vascular surgeon.

We also have ultrasound tests to measure blood flow and check for any blood clots in your veins. We may also order a Doppler ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create pictures of your veins.

What causes varicose veins?

Varicose veins develop when the walls of a vein stretch, and the valves in that vein become faulty. This happens for a variety of reasons, including pregnancy, taking birth control pills or hormone therapy, and age-related wear and tear on your vein valves. Varicose veins are more common in women, and they tend to run in families.

The good news is that many people don’t experience any pain from varicose veins, because the veins are no longer carrying blood. But the pain can become more severe if you continue to put pressure on your veins, such as by sitting or standing for long periods of time or wearing tight clothing that restricts blood flow.

You can avoid varicose veins by wearing loose, comfortable clothes and elevating your legs when possible. This will encourage blood to move up your legs and relieve swelling. Drinking fluids also promotes healthy circulation. If you have to sit or stand for a long period of time, take breaks to walk around or try using compression stockings.

Minimally invasive vein treatments are often covered by insurance. Our team of specialists will work with your provider to get the best coverage available for your needs.

To treat varicose veins, your doctor will insert a thin tube, called a catheter, into the affected vein through a small cut near your ankle or knee. A device attached to the tip of the catheter (radiofrequency ablation) or a laser (endovenous laser treatment) is then used to heat up the inside of the vein, which causes it to close off. Blood is then redirected to other healthy veins. This procedure is usually done in a clinic, and you can go home the same day. Some bruising may occur, but this should fade within a few weeks.