What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are weak or damaged veins that swell with blood, becoming visible on the surface of your skin. They usually develop on your legs as thick, ropey, twisted blue or purple veins.
While varicose veins aren’t necessarily dangerous, they can warn of a vascular health problem. They can also trigger other uncomfortable symptoms, such as:
- Aches or heaviness in your legs
- Swollen calves
- Tired legs
- Skin discoloration
- Red, dry, and itchy skin
- Leg cramps
- Restless leg syndrome
It’s also possible to have varicose veins without any other disruptive or uncomfortable symptoms.
What causes varicose veins?
There are many old wives’ tales about what causes varicose veins, but ultimately, it comes down to weakness in your peripheral veins.
The veins in your legs have tiny valves that help push your blood back up to your heart. If those valves are weak or damaged, your blood doesn’t circulate efficiently. Your blood can then leak backward and pool in a section of a weakened vein.
The pooling of blood causes your vein to swell, eventually becoming visible on the surface of your skin.
Your risk of developing varicose veins is higher if you have a family history of the condition, are overweight, or spend many hours on your feet every day.
When should I talk to a doctor about varicose veins?
You should make an appointment at University Vascular if you have any concerns about your varicose veins. Your concerns may be cosmetic or you might have symptoms that interfere with your health or quality of life.
University Vascular provides thorough physical exams to evaluate your overall and vascular health. They might use ultrasound to examine your veins and look for damage, weakness, or other issues that could put your health at risk.
How are varicose veins treated?
University Vascular provides various treatments for varicose veins, ranging from compression stockings and lifestyle adjustments to surgery. Depending on your individual needs, you may need:
- Compression stockings
- Weight loss
- VenaCure® endovenous radiofrequency ablation
- Laser treatments
- Sclerotherapy
- VenaSeal™ vein closure
- Ambulatory microphlebectomy
If you’re concerned about your varicose veins and want expert diagnosis and treatment, call University Vascular or make an appointment online today.
