Understanding Varicose Veins

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most often appear in the calves and thighs. It is important to note that any vein near the skin’s surface can become varicose.

They often appear with a blueish-purple hue and look similar to a spider web.

Varicose Veins Causes

Varicose veins occur when healthy veins become overfilled with blood due to poor circulation. Pregnancy-related changes can exacerbate this condition, as the added pressure can weaken vein valves.

Our veins work by returning blood from the body to the heart. To return blood to the heart effectively, the veins in the legs must be strong enough to work against gravity.

Muscle contractions act as pumps in the lower legs, and the elasticity of vein walls helps blood return to the upper body and heart.

As the blood flows back to the heart, the valves in the veins open and close to stop blood from flowing in the wrong direction.

When vein valves become weak or damaged, blood begins to flow backward and pool in the lower leg veins causing increased blood pressure that makes them stretch and twist, giving off their cord-like appearance often seen on the skin’s surface.

Varicose Veins Symptoms

Many people living with varicose veins do not experience any painful symptoms.

The most obvious first symptom of varicose veins is a twisted, bulging, blueish purple vein.

For those with more extensive varicose veins, symptoms may include:

• An aching or heavy feeling in the legs
• A burning sensation
• Muscle cramping
• Swelling, especially in the lower legs
• Increased leg pain after long periods of sitting or standing
• Itching around the affected veins
• Changes in skin color and texture around the affected area

Varicose Veins Risk Factors

Valve weakening that leads to varicose veins can happen for a variety of reasons.

Those at increased risk of developing varicose veins include:

• Pregnant women
• Women in menopause
• Those who are overweight or obese
• Those who stand or sit for long periods
• People with a family history of varicose veins and other venous disorders
• Those aged 50 and older
• Women

Varicose Vein Treatment Options

Our interventional radiologists offer a wide range of treatments because each case of varicose veins can be quite different. It is always our primary goal to find an optimal solution for our patients as individuals.

If you require treatment for varicose veins, our physicians will advise you about which methods will work best to treat your specific condition during your diagnostic vein evaluation.

Some common, minimally invasive treatment options include:

• Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy
• Sclerotherapy
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Radiofrequency perforator ablation
• Ambulatory phlebectomy (varicose vein removal)
• Varicocele embolization

Effective Varicose Vein Care You Can Trust

If you are living with varicose veins, we can help without the risks of extensive surgery or the expense and downtime required by going to the hospital.

Intervening early helps prevent the escalation of pain and worsening of symptoms. To get a better understanding of what leads to the development of varicose veins, see our detailed explanation of why varicose veins occur.

Texas Endovascular provides the most advanced and minimally invasive vein treatments for the Greater Houston and Dallas area. Our vein specialists are experienced in caring for varicose veins and varicose vein diseases that can affect the legs.

To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact uscontact uscontact us today.