If you are one of the 50 percent of American women who suffer from varicose veins, then you know the struggle. And you also know the relief when summer finally fades into the sunset so you can comfortably wear long pants and long skirts without sweating. If you suffer from varicose veins, you fully understand the delicate dance of keeping your unsightly veins covered up and out of view.
You’re in good company. According to the American College of Phlebology, up to 40 million Americans have varicose veins or a related venous disorder. That’s a lot of women (and men!) dealing with this unsightly inconvenience.
Or is it more than that?
Are These Varicose Veins or Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small broken capillaries close to the surface of the skin. They are mostly cosmetic in nature and rarely cause pain. Varicose veins, on the other hand, can cause leg swelling, leg pain and are larger (usually more than a quarter-inch in diameter) and often distended (protruding), located deeper than spider veins and can be related to more serious vein disorders.
Varicose Vein symptoms:
- Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
- Heavy or tired feeling in the legs
- Leg cramping, pain, achy or itchy sensation
- Changes in skin color and texture
- Sores, ulcers or open wounds developing
Varicose veins are definitely more than a cosmetic concern and should not be covered up and ignored. Left untreated, they can pose significant risks to your wellbeing. Some significant health conditions related to venous disorder include:
- Superficial phlebitis is inflammation of a vein just below the surface of the skin, caused by decreased blood flow through the vein, damage to the vein or even blood clotting. Symptoms include redness and a firm, tender, warm vein. Pain and swelling also may occur. This condition increases your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, a potentially serious condition that involves a blood clot in a deep vein.
- Spontaneous bleeding can occur as the skin on top of the varicose veins becomes thin. The affected vein can be easily injured, even by clothing, bedding or a slight bump.
- Venous leg ulcers can develop when the enlarged vein does not provide adequate drainage of fluid from the skin. The swollen skin receives insufficient oxygen and an ulcer can form.
Putting off treatment for your varicose veins is unwise, and in some cases, can lead to more serious issues. No more hiding!
Who is Most at Risk for Varicose Veins?
- Over age 60
- Female (hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy or menopause may be a factor, as can birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy)
- Family history of varicose veins
- Obesity
- Standing or sitting for long periods
- Trauma to the leg
Advanced Varicose Vein Treatment at Lam Vascular & Associates
The doctors at Lam Vascular & Associates Dr. Russell Lam, Dr. Cassidy Duran and Dr. Esther Mihindu treat your varicose veins in a variety of ways depending on how severe they are and your overall health. Advances in technology have allowed for minimally invasive treatments that have great success. Options include:
- Venefit Targeted Endovenous Therapy
- Phlebectomy
- High Ligation
- Vein Stripping
- Sclerotherapy
Learn more about Lam Vascular’s advanced varicose vein treatment.
Not sure if your vein issues require treatment? Come see us. We can help you determine if one of the above treatments is right for you. Treatment can often be performed in-office on an outpatient basis with minimal downtime. Schedule a consultation now.
The information contained in this article is not intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice. Patient results will vary based on risk factors, age, disease and medical history and are not guaranteed in any way.
