The Ugly Truth About Varicose Veins

          Varicose Veins and Spider Veins not only cause pain and discomfort, but they can make a person feel self- conscious. Many people feel embarrassed and uncomfortable about exposing their legs in public because of Varicose Veins. Thanks to cutting edge technology and the most up to date medical treatments many people are finding both relief and their self esteem back. 

         Here are a few frequently asked questions to explain the cause, symptoms and treatment for Varicose and Spider Veins.

Q: What are the causes and risk factors of Varicose and Spider Veins?

A: Varicose Veins are a common problem and can occur within 30-40% of men and women. There is a hereditary tendency to get Varicose Veins. A job or lifestyle that involves constant standing or immobility is a risk factor as is childbirth and pregnancy. Spider Veins are tiny bluish or purplish veins that typically appear on the legs and the side of the thighs. They don't look good cosmetically but can also cause pain, burning or itching. Spider Veins are often caused by hormonal changes in women, especially during pregnancy aand childbirth.

Q: Do Varicose Veins pose a serious health issue?

A: Because the blood in Varicose Veins tend to stagnate, it can clot and cause phlebitis which can be a serious health problem. Prolonged blood stagnation also causes skin discoloration, inflammation, and ulcers in the lower part of the leg. 

Q: What  treatment options are available for Varicose and Spider Veins?

A: Treatment for Varicose Veins begins by first closing the superficial vein that is feeding the Varicose Veins. It is usually done by Laser and takes about 25 minutes. It is pain free and requires minimal down time. As the leaking vein is eliminated, circulation in the leg is restored. Blood does not back up in the leg and the Varicose Veins shrink and disappear. Spider Veins are treated by a procedure called Sclerotherapy. With this procedure the unsightly veins are injected with a solution that shrinks and closes them. The procedure takes 20 minutes and patients are able to resume normal activities immediately.

Q: Can Varicose and Spider Veins be treated with medication?

A: There is no medication that can cure Varicose Veins. The root cause of Varicose Veins is stretching and ballooning of superficial leg veins that feed into the Varicose and Spider Veins. These ballooned out veins need to be corrected with Laser to achieve long lasting successful results. Wearing compression stockings can help relieve pain and swelling by giving support to the dilated Varicose Veins from the outside but they are not a cure. Leg exercises and being active are good ways to improve circulation and prevent stagnation in the legs.

Whether you have Varicose Veins or Spider Veins, there are various treatment options to say goodbye to those ugly veins for good! 

Author

Dr. Inam Ul Haq