Questions Answered: A Q&A with a Varicose Specialist

Varicose veins affect many people. The condition can often lead to physical discomfort and emotional distress. This blog aims to provide clear and accurate answers to your most pressing questions about varicose veins, treatment options, and prevention strategies. Our insights come directly from experienced varicose specialists who understand the complexities of this condition and are here to offer their expertise.

Understanding Varicose Veins and Vascular Disease

Vascular disease impacts the blood vessels responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients throughout the body while removing waste from tissues. It encompasses any condition that affects the circulatory system, including the network of blood vessels. These are elastic tubes responsible for transporting blood throughout your body. They consist of three main types:

• Arteries, which carry blood away from the heart
• Veins, which return blood to the heart
• Capillaries, tiny blood vessels that connect small veins and arteries

Venous or vein disease is a type of vascular disease that affects the function of veins. It can cause varicose veins, as well as other conditions, like spider veins (damaged blood vessels) and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), which affects the vein’s ability to pump blood to the heart.

If you have noticed bulging veins on your legs or have experienced swelling and aching in your lower limbs, you might be dealing with varicose veins. These are veins that have become enlarged and twisted, often appearing just under the surface of your skin. They can cause discomfort and may lead to more serious health issues if left untreated.

How Common Are Varicose Veins in the U.S.?

Varicose veins are more common than many people realize. According to the American Heart Association, about 23% of adults in the U.S. are affected by varicose veins. This means that nearly one in four adults may experience them at some point in their lives. The condition is more prevalent among women, but men can also be affected.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

In simple terms, varicose veins happen when the walls of your veins deteriorate. As blood pressure within the veins rises, it causes the weakened walls to stretch. When this occurs, the valves inside the veins fail to function properly. Normally, these valves ensure blood flows smoothly back to the heart. When they malfunction, blood starts to flow backwards and collects in the vein, causing it to swell. Factors like age, family history, obesity, and prolonged standing can increase the risk of developing varicose veins.

What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

Common symptoms include:

• Visible swollen and twisted veins just under the skin’s surface, often appearing blue or purple
• Aching pain and a feeling of heaviness in the legs
• Throbbing in the lower limbs
• Swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs
• Localized itching
• Leg cramps

Do Varicose Veins Require Treatment?

In most cases, varicose veins are not dangerous. However, severe varicose veins can cause complications like skin ulcers, skin discoloration, and bleeding. If left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems, such as blood clots. It is always best to get checked out if you have symptoms of varicose veins. Your healthcare provider can recommend the appropriate course of action based on your unique circumstances.

How Can Varicose Veins Be Treated?

Several treatment options exist for varicose veins. These range from lifestyle changes like exercise and leg elevation to medical procedures. Common procedures include:

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a simple procedure that involves injecting a solution into the problematic vein. This causes the walls of the vein to stick together, gradually causing the vein to turn into scar tissue and disappear.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radio waves to create intense heat within the varicose vein. This causes the vein to close up, forcing blood to reroute to other nearby healthy veins.

Microphlebectomy

Microphlebectomy is a minor procedure to remove problematic varicose veins. It works by making tiny incisions on the skin and is done under local anesthesia. The vein is tied off and removed one section at a time, which leaves minimal scarring on the skin surface.

Consulting a varicose vein doctor can help determine the best treatment plan for you.

Expert Insights from a Varicose Vein Specialist

The varicose vein specialists at Pedes Orange County share the following insights into varicose vein diagnosis and treatment.

Why Is Early Treatment Important?

Early treatment is highly recommended. This is because ignoring varicose veins can lead to more serious complications like blood clots and skin ulcers. Early intervention can prevent these issues and improve your quality of life.

What Should Patients Expect During a Vein Consultation?

During a consultation, your vein doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and assess your family and personal medical history. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, may be recommended to assess blood flow and the condition and function of your veins. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms and individual requirements.

Living with Varicose Veins

Living with varicose veins can be challenging, but there are practical steps you can take to manage the condition.

Exercise Regularly

Avoid prolonged periods of sitting. Stay active by engaging in low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling. Exercise helps improve blood circulation and reduce symptoms.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity can put extra pressure on your veins, worsening varicose veins. Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help alleviate pressure.

Elevate Your Legs

Avoid standing for long periods and elevate your legs above heart level for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and improve blood flow.

Quit Smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces blood flow, and causes various health problems.

Wear Compression Stockings

Supportive socks and stockings compress the veins, help improve circulation, and help prevent varicose veins from getting worse.

Varicose Vein Doctors in Orange County, CA

At Pedes Orange County, we combine expertise, advanced treatments, and compassionate care to help you manage and treat varicose veins effectively. Our experts provide customized treatment plans, including minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency ablation, sclerotherapy, and microphlebectomy. We treat the entire spectrum of vein disease and its underlying causes, ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive care.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at 949-998-4568 or use our appointment scheduling portal. We look forward to serving you!