Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are known for their distinctive blue color and bulging appearance under the skin which develops primarily in the legs. Normally, one-way valves in the veins keep blood flowing up toward the heart against the force of gravity. When the valves become weak and don't close properly, they allow blood to flow backwards and pool in the veins. The increased pressure from the pooling stretches the vein, causing enlarged, twisted blood vessels. This creates bumpy, rope-like veins called varicose veins.

There are a series of factors that can trigger the onset of varicose veins including prolonged standing, hormones, pregnancy, obesity, aging, or menopause. Varicose veins are hereditary and while they are more often found in women, anyone can get them.

Symptoms

Symptoms of varicose veins have been known to include (but aren't limited to)

• Bumpy, rope looking veins beneath the skin
• Itchiness
• Burning sensation around the affected tissue
• Pain
• Skin discoloration
• Cramping
• Aching
• Fatigue
• Heaviness
• Blood clotting
• Ulcers

Some symptoms can be managed to an extent with conservative therapy; most symptoms can be avoided with early treatment. If left untreated, many of these symptoms can lead to more serious complications.

Diagnosis

Vein disorders are not always visible at the skin’s surface. Many patients have reported experiencing the symptoms of varicose veins without the actual appearance. Based on the results of the initial screening, your doctor may recommend additional tests such as diagnostic ultrasound. An ultrasound examination is designed to evaluate the blood flow through the veins to determine the severity of the disease and best path of treatment.

Ultrasound is used to Diagnose Varicose Veins

Treatment

The Vein Center provides a range of varicose vein treatments including; VenaCure EVLT™ (Endovenous Laser Treatment), Ambulatory Phlebectomy, and Sclerotherapy. Depending on severity and extent of the varicose veins, overall health, and risk factors, a personal treatment plan will be created for you. Treatment plans can range from a single treatment to a series of treatments using multiple therapies.

VenaCure EVLT™
VenaCure EVLT (Endovenous Laser Treatment) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses targeted laser energy to close the vein and provide immediate relief of symptoms. Your physician inserts a sheath into the vein, exposing it to laser energy which produces heat. By delivering the right wavelength of heat to the correct tissue, the incompetent veins (varicose veins) close. Your body will then automatically route the blood to other healthy veins. This safe, fast, and effective procedure is performed in-office and produces little-to-no scarring with minimal downtime.

Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a treatment which injects a sclerosing agent into the affected varicose veins. This solution causes an irritation to the inner lining of the vein, causing it to close. Treatment can be used independently or in conjunction with other varicose vein therapies. Results may be seen immediately; while others may take several weeks.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Ambulatory Phlebectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique which removes the affected varicose veins through small incisions. It requires only local anesthesia and usually takes less than an hour with minimal downtime. Treatment can be used independently or in conjunction with other varicose vein treatments.

Varicose Veins Before & After Treatment

Post Treatment

Following varicose vein treatments it is encouraged to walk and continue with normal daily activity, avoiding rigorous activities such as gym workouts. Depending on treatment, the affected leg(s) must be supported by compression bandages or graduated support stockings for 1-3 weeks after the procedure to allow the vein walls to heal closed.

Varicose veins can have significant impact to your health, lifestyle, and well being. Varicose vein treatment is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare. Call today to schedule your free vein screening and see which therapies would be best for you.

Please call The Vein Center experts at (804) 477-8613 or fill out our contact form.