Varicose veins are enlarged and twisted veins that are visible beneath the skin. These veins usually form in the legs and the feet, but they can be seen in other parts of the body as well. This vascular condition develops as a result of pressure that is placed on the lower extremities of the body through standing and walking. Spider veins are similar to varicose veins in how they develop, but they tend to be smaller and tend not to protrude from the skin as prominently.
At Rosen Vein Care, Dr. David Rosen specializes in the treatment of both types of veins and has many options available to you depending on your individual condition.
Varicose Vein Overview
Veins that become varicose can cause either a wide range of symptoms or no symptoms at all. For some, they may be merely cosmetic with no other symptoms. Others can experience fatigue, swelling and varying degrees of discomfort.
Varicose veins can lead to more serious health problems. Their appearance is an indication that you may be at risk for underlying circulatory concerns. There are a number of treatment options, depending on the severity of your venous issues.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are characterized by the appearance of veins that are blue or purple and that are bulging or twisted. These veins can cause aches or heaviness in your legs with swelling in the lower portion. You might feel a burning sensation or throbbing, along with muscle cramps. Symptoms often worsen after long periods of standing or sitting. You may also experience itching near or around the affected veins.
Treatments for Varicose Veins
Treatment options depend on the severity of your case. There are many things you can do at home to lessen symptoms such as walking daily, and modern techniques have lessened the need for invasive surgical procedures in most cases. Increased exercise and weight loss can be a good start to lessening discomfort.
Avoiding wearing tight clothes that can restrict blood flow are another way to reduce your risk, and be sure to spend some time elevating your legs after sitting or standing for a long time. Compression stockings can provide relief, as well. These garments squeeze the legs from the ankles upward as a means of assisting the blood to flow.
There are treatments for those with more severe venous issues. Sclerotherapy is a method in which a solution is injected into affected veins that closes them through scarring, leading to improvement within a few weeks as the veins are removed by the body. Endovenous laser ablation therapy is another method to close off varicose veins.
Contact Rosen Vein Care today to schedule a consultation and have your varicose veins expertly diagnosed and treated through our modern, minimally-invasive techniques.