Varicose veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and twisting veins, often appearing blue or dark purple. They happen when faulty valves in the veins allow blood to flow in the wrong direction or to pool. More than one in four adults is affected by varicose veins in the United States. In severe cases, a varicose vein may rupture, or develop into varicose ulcers on the skin. These will require treatment.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
While varicose veins can affect nearly anyone, they tend to occur more often in patients possessing certain risk factors, including:
- Older age- 50 percent of women over the age of fifty have varicose veins.
- Genetics- Approximately 50 percent of patients with report that a close family member also has this condition.
- Hormones- Fluctuating levels of progesterone and estrogen have been identified as a primary factor in the formation of varicose veins in women.
- Pregnancy- In addition to the hormonal changes during pregnancy, varicose veins may develop due to increased venous pressure from the growing uterus.
- Obesity- Excessive weight may also place excessive pressure on vessels, leading to valve weakness.
- Prolonged standing or sitting- Circulation is promoted by movement. When we sit or stand for too long, blood may more easily pool in the lower extremities.
- Lack of physical activity
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
Varicose veins usually do not cause any pain. Signs you may have varicose veins include:
- Veins may be dark purple or blue in color
- Veins appear twisted and/or bulging; they are often like cords on your legs
While rare, when painful signs and symptoms occur, they may include:
- An achy or heavy feeling in your legs
- Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in your lower legs
- Worsened pain after sitting or standing for long periods of time
- Itching around one or more of your veins
- Skin discoloration around a varicose vein
How are varicose veins diagnosed?
Your doctor can usually diagnose varicose veins after a physical examination of the affected area. Additional testing may also be performed, such as an ultrasound to evaluate the structure and blood flow within the veins.
Varicose Vein Treatment Options
While healthy weight, physical activity, and compression garments may reduce the effects of varicose veins, lifestyle modifications may not be sufficient for some people. Many people with venous disease seek treatment to reduce the symptoms and unsightly appearance of varicose or spider veins on the legs. Treatment often relieves discomfort associated with the condition such as swelling, fatigue, itching and cramps. Sometimes, however, more significant problems can develop if abnormal veins are left untreated. If venous insufficiency is left alone, it can lead to ulcers or open wounds on the legs. Left untreated, serious medical consequences may result.
How Can I Prevent Varicose Veins?
While there is no surefire way to prevent varicose veins from developing, there are certain lifestyle changes that can be made in order to reduce your risk of developing this condition. This may include:
- Exercising regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Wearing compression stockings
- Elevating the legs
- Avoiding sitting or standing in one position for too long
At Vascular Care Specialists of Los Angeles, we prefer a variety of treatment options for varicose veins. We can provide you with more information as to how you can reduce your risk of varicose veins and maintain strong vascular health. Varicose veins may be removed for either cosmetic or medical reasons. When medical concerns exist, many insurance companies will cover the removal procedure. We can help you resolve the appearance and discomfort.
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