Varicose Veins

Blood Flow Through The Veins

Arteries carry blood from the heart out toward the rest of the body, carrying oxygen to the tissues. Veins carry blood back to the heart, from the lower half of the body, against gravity to begin the cycle all over again. In healthy veins, there are one-way valves that act as a barrier ensuring that blood continually moves upward. For a variety of reasons, such as weight gain, pregnancy, hormonal changes, and our genes, the veins malfunction and this natural flow of blood is interrupted.

How Do Varicose Veins Form?

Calf muscles in the legs act as powerful pumps to push the blood back toward the heart, but the stress on these veins as they succumb to a great deal of pressure causes them to weaken. The walls of the veins in the legs stretch, or the valves improperly open and close fully, so blood tends to pool, causing reflux.

The excess blood in the lower half of the body is pushed out through the surface veins causing them to bulge outward as they collect the excess. Varicose veins are the large ropey veins that are noticeable on the surface of the skin in the legs. Over time, these veins can become painful and debilitating. Varicose veins are one of the most common vein insufficiency conditions known today.

Symptoms

Dull aching, heaviness, or cramping of the legs
Itching and tingling
Burning sensation in the legs
Pain that gets worse when standing
Pain that gets better when legs are raised
Swelling of the legs
Redness of the legs and ankles
Skin color changes around the ankles
Skin discoloration (bluing and browning of the skin)
Thickening and hardening of the skin on the legs and ankles
Ulcers on the legs and ankles
Restless legs

Complications

Varicose veins are a sign of a dysfunctional circulatory system or chronic venous disease, and can lead to severe pain and discomfort. Varicose veins are most commonly found in the legs, but can appear in other areas of the body as well. Varicose veins can also progress to more complicated problems like skin pigmentation, eczema, restless leg syndrome, ulcers, cramps caused by simple movements, and the worst of all – chronic vein insufficiency. Varicose veins should be treated as soon as any of the above symptoms are experienced, as they can prohibit normal activities.

How do I treat varicose veins?

Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available for varicose veins. If you are experiencing discomfort or notice the appearance of varicose veins, it is important to seek medical intervention. Our vascular surgeons can evaluate your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.

In many cases, minimally invasive procedures such as endovenous laser therapy or Venaseal Closure can be used to treat varicose veins. These procedures are safe, effective, and have minimal downtime, allowing individuals to quickly return to their normal activities.

While surgery may seem intimidating, it is important to remember that it can be a highly effective treatment option for severe cases of varicose veins. The goal of surgery is to remove the damaged vein and restore proper blood flow to the affected area, reducing pain and improving overall quality of life.

If you are experiencing varicose veins, don't wait to seek medical attention. With the right treatment, you can achieve smoother, clearer skin and improved overall health and wellbeing.