Varicose Veins

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are visible, swollen, bluish veins beneath the surface of your skin — often in your feet, ankles, or legs. They develop because of weak or stretched vein walls and dysfunctional valves that cause blood to pool in the affected vein. While such engorged veins may not be problematic, they are sometimes itchy, painful, or unsightly when left untreated. 

Having varicose veins may also increase the risk of developing blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), superficial thrombophlebitis, or a pulmonary embolism.

What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

Varicose veins may be:

• Blue
• Dark purple
• Itchy
• Painful
• Swollen
• Bulging
• Rope-like
• Twisted
• Sore
• Throbbing
• Discolored

The veins might also cause muscles in your legs to feel heavy, cramp, sluggish, or tired — particularly after exercise. Severe varicose veins can cause open sores (venous ulcers) in your skin. Spider veins are smaller forms of varicose veins.

What are the risk factors for varicose veins?

Varicose veins are common, and anyone can develop them. Common risk factors include:

• Pregnancy
• Overweight and obesity
• Standing or sitting for long periods
• Aging
• Hormones
• Family history of varicose veins
• Using tobacco
• Being female

The walls of the varicose veins become weaker because of dilation, thickening, or stretching. Vein valves then fail to control blood flow effectively, leading to blood accumulation and swelling. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits may lessen your chance of developing varicose veins.

How are varicose veins diagnosed?

Dr. Jain completes a physical exam to view visible varicose veins. He also discusses your symptoms, medical history, and goals. He might use a venous ultrasound to obtain detailed images of the affected veins and check for blood clots or other complications. 

How are varicose veins treated?

Dr. Jain takes a personalized approach to treating varicose veins. He may suggest one or more of the following solutions:

• Lifestyle changes
• Elevation
• Compression stockings
• Laser therapy
• Radiofrequency therapy 
• Injection therapy (sclerotherapy)
• Vein surgery

It’s helpful to exercise regularly, eat a nutritious diet, maintain an ideal weight, not cross your legs, not smoke, and avoid sitting and standing for long periods. Wear comfortable footwear and see Dr. Jain at the first sign of painful or unsightly varicose veins. Follow up with him to ensure long-lasting results and the best quality of life possible. 

Schedule a varicose vein evaluation at Jain Cardiovascular by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.