Varicose veins, described as twisted or enlarged veins, are a hereditary condition, i.e., you have a greater chance of inheriting varicose veins if one of your blood relatives has. Typically, women, elderly persons, obese patients, or someone who sits or stands for a prolonged period are more prone to varicose veins.
The risk factors that make you prone to varicose veins can weaken or damage the tiny one-way valve inside your veins, resulting in the backward flow of the blood in the veins and pool in your legs, causing the vein to twist and bulge.
If you are prone to varicose veins, you must consciously examine your body, including your extremities, to identify the vein problem. Knowing the signs and symptoms of varicose veins can make it easier for you to identify and deal with varicose veins.
Let’s talk about the signs and symptoms of varicose veins, how you can deal with varicose veins, and where to visit for outstanding care.
Signs and Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are mainly without any pain and discomfort. The pain-free signs include:
- Discolored Vein: In a varicose vein, the blood is backed up inside your veins, giving them a blue or dark purple appearance under your skin.
- Twisted and bulging vein: Varicose veins appears enlarged, twisted, bulging, and swollen. They often seem like a cord on your legs.
The painful signs may include:
- Feeling heaviness and aching in your legs
- Persistent pain that worsens after standing or sitting for a long period
- Swelling, burning, muscle cramping, and throbbing in your legs
- Chronic itching around your one or more varicose veins
Severe cases of varicose veins lead to long-term swelling of the legs, resulting in severe tissue and skin problems, including ulcers and nonhealing sores.
Ways to Deal with Varicose Veins
Unlike other medical conditions, you do not have to stay in the hospital or experience a long and uncomfortable recovery to deal with varicose veins. You may opt for one or more of the following ways:
Self-Care: Practicing self-care, such as exercise, weight loss, legs elevation, avoiding tight clothes, and avoiding sitting or standing for a long period, can help you deal with varicose veins and prevent them from getting worse.
Compression Stockings: Compression stockings may also help you deal with varicose veins by squeezing your legs and moving the blood efficiently.
Sclerotherapy: Medications, such as sclerosing agent, a surfactant in the form of a foam or solution that irritates your vein and closes them, may help you get rid of varicose veins within a few weeks.
Laser Treatment: Treatment of varicose veins using laser heat is another effective approach. Your vein specialist inserts a catheter into your vein and heats its tip with laser energy. The inserted catheter is removed, and the laser energy heat causes your varicose vein to collapse and seal shut.
Phlebectomy: This procedure removes large varicose veins near the skin surface through an incision using a small hook-like instrument.
Vein Stripping And Ligation: This is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made, and a varicose vein is removed
Varicose Vein Treatment In Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, And Largo, FL
If you are suffering from varicose veins, we are here to help you with a lasting solution. Dr. Mackay is a highly skilled and trusted vein specialist specialized in treating varicose veins and improving your leg appearance. Our experienced team will evaluate your medical history and vein conditions and devise a personalized treatment plan for you.
To get yourself evaluated for varicose veins, contact our friendly staff today by calling at (727) 527-2888 or filling out our appointment consultation form.