Understanding Varicose Veins

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear on the legs and feet. They occur when the valves in the veins, which normally help regulate blood flow, become leaky and/or damaged. This then leads to blood pooling in the veins, increasing the pressure in the vessels and causing them to swell and bulge. While this can happen to any vein, it most commonly affects the veins in the legs due to the pressure exerted by the pull of gravity toward the feet.

What Do Varicose Veins Look Like?

Varicose veins are prominent veins, often resembling cords, beneath the skin. They can be straight or have a twisting appearance. In some cases, they can also appear alongside spider veins, which are smaller, red or blue veins that are visible on the skin’s surface.

Are Varicose Veins Dangerous?

While many people consider the condition a cosmetic issue, it can sometimes lead to more serious health problems. Complications can include bleeding episodes, skin ulcers, blood clots, and chronic inflammation. If you experience significant pain, bleeding from a varicose vein, swelling, or skin changes, it is essential to seek medical attention to prevent further complications.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Visible, twisted, and bulging veins on the legs
• Swelling in the lower legs and ankles
• Aching or heavy feeling in the legs, especially after prolonged standing or sitting
• Throbbing, cramping, or burning sensation in the legs
• Itching around the affected veins
• Skin discoloration or hardening on the legs, particularly near the ankles

Can Varicose Veins Hurt?

Yes, they can be painful. The pain feels like aching, throbbing, or a heavy sensation in the legs. In addition, they can cause muscle cramping, swelling, and a burning sensation. Symptoms can also worsen after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are caused by weakened or damaged valves in the veins. Factors that contribute to this condition include:

• Age: As you age, vein walls can lose elasticity, causing them to get bigger and their valves to weaken.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes, increased uterine size and increased blood volume during pregnancy can enlarge veins.
• Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Occupations that require long periods of standing or sitting can increase the likelihood of the development of varicose veins.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on vein valves and wear them out faster.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can affect vein health.

What Are the Risk Factors for Varicose Veins?

Several factors increase your risk, including:

• Gender: Women are more at risk at an earlier age due to hormonal changes and the physiologic changes of pregnancy. However, men and women in their 60’s and 70’s have essentially the same degree of risk.
• Age: Your risk increases with age, regardless of your gender.
• Family History: A genetic predisposition can also raise your risk.
• Obesity: Excess weight can strain vein valves.
• Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Jobs or activities that require long periods of standing or sitting can put increased pressure on the veins in your legs.

Are Varicose Veins Genetic?

Yes, genetics play a significant role. Genetic factors can influence the strength and elasticity of vein walls and the effectiveness of vein valves. So, if you have a family history of the condition, you are more likely to develop them yourself.

How Do You Treat Varicose Veins?

There are several treatment options available for varicose veins, ranging from lifestyle changes to medical procedures. These include:

• Compression Stockings: Wearing compression stockings helps improve blood flow out of the legs. This helps to slow down any CVI progression and reduce symptoms of CVI as a result.
• Lifestyle Changes: Regular, low impact exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can also help to manage symptoms and slow progression of CVI.
• Supplements: High-quality Diosmin and Hesperidin bioflavonoids, such as those found in Vein Formula and Lymphatic Formula, can decrease the inflammation within the blood and lymphatic vessel walls that damages those vessels.
• Sclerotherapy: A procedure where we inject a solution into the insufficient veins, causing them to collapse and fade.
• Thermal Ablation: Uses thermal energy (Radiofrequency or laser) to close off the affected veins.
• VenaSeal: Uses a sterile glue to shut the insufficient vein down. As opposed to the chemical and thermal ablation procedures, this procedure does not require the use of compression stockings in the immediate post-procedure window.

Will Varicose Veins Go Away Without Treatment?

They typically do not go away without treatment. While lifestyle changes and self-care measures can alleviate symptoms and prevent further progression, the underlying issue of damaged valves remains. As a result, medical treatments are often necessary to effectively eliminate the source of the problematic veins and improve the appearance and health of the affected areas.

Varicose Vein Specialists

For comprehensive care and effective treatment options, request an appointment online or call our office at 972-378-5347. Our expert team provides personalized solutions to help you achieve healthier, more comfortable legs.

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