About 35% of the United States population struggles with varicose veins, most of them being women. In most cases, they are cosmetic, while in others, the varicose veins may indicate an underlying circulatory disorder. The South Shore Vein and Aesthetic Medicine team uses state-of-art technology to diagnose varicose veins and offer excellent treatment, preventing complications like ulcers.
An overview of varicose veins
Varicose veins refer to the large, ropelike veins that bulge on the skin at the back of your legs. These unsightly veins can occur anywhere, but they often develop on the ankle, calf, and thigh. Varicose veins are not usually medically alarming, but they can cause extreme discomfort and cause the affected individuals to feel less confident in their physical appearance.
Although the principal cause of varicose veins is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), several factors can contribute to their development. CVI is a circulatory disorder when blood trickles backward and pools in your legs, causing your veins to swell. Your valves are responsible for regulating blood flow to and from your heart, and when they malfunction, they can result in chronic venous insufficiency.
Other factors that may result in varicose veins include age, obesity, standing for an extended period, genetics, and pregnancy.
How to distinguish varicose veins from spider veins
Spider veins are a smaller form of varicose veins, and they often develop in the form of a spider web or a sunburst. Unlike varicose veins, which only appear on the legs, spider veins can also develop on your face. Both vein conditions stem from damaged or malfunctioning valves, and their risk factors are similar, although obesity and genetics may worsen spider veins.
Varicose veins rarely cause any painful symptoms. However, if you experience the following symptoms, inform your doctor immediately; a heavy or achy feeling in your legs, itching around the affected veins, swelling, cramping, and throbbing in your lower leg, and pain that worsens after sitting for a long time. Spider veins are not usually uncomfortable but may also cause similar symptoms in severe cases.
Diagnostic tests for varicose veins
These unsightly veins develop closer to the skin, making them easily noticeable. If varicose veins disrupt your daily routine, you can approach your doctor, who will conduct a comprehensive physical examination. Your provider may feel the bulging veins and evaluate them while you are standing and sitting. For more details, your physician may order an ultrasound, a painless diagnostic test that produces images of your internal organs. The test also detects any blood clots and helps your doctor evaluate your valves’ functioning.
Available treatments for varicose veins
Your treatment plan relies on your symptoms’ severity and physical exam results. Dr. Jacob, a board-certified phlebologist, offers cutting-edging procedures that guarantee excellent results. He specializes in minimally invasive treatment procedures to minimize complications and reduce the recovery period. Your provider may recommend endovenous laser therapy, which involves heating the affected vein wall and sealing it permanently. He may also recommend sclerotherapy, in which he injects a unique solution to collapse the varicose veins. Dr. Jacob utilizes ground-breaking technology such as Veinlite to provide a clear view of the target veins.
For more information about varicose veins, call Dr. Jacob or book your spot online.
