According to statistics, 80 million Americans are dealing with varicose veins. Having bulging veins in your legs or other parts of your body may be cosmetically unpleasant, but it can also cause personal discomfort. Fatigue, pain, swelling, itching, and other signs often accompany this issue. If this sounds familiar to you, we may be able to help. Beyond Podiatry is staffed by experts in podiatric care ready to help you feel comfortable again.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins form when too much pressure is put on certain parts of your body. These twisted veins invade your skin, particularly as you get older, appearing unpleasant and sometimes being accompanied by discomfort as well. Certain factors put you at a greater risk of developing this issue. These include::
- Family history – 60% of females will develop varicose veins if one of their parents had varicose veins, 90% if both parents had the condition.
- Age – incidence increases with advancing age.
- Pregnancy – having been pregnant once increases the risk of developing varicose veins.
- Obesity – a BMI over thirty increases the risk.
- History of Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) – having a clot in the deep veins of the leg increases the chance of developing varicose veins.
- Trauma or surgery to the lower extremities.
- Occupations with prolonged standing.
Signs of Varicose Veins
Swelling, itching, and throbbing are the most telling signs of this issue, aside from the visual appearance of these veins. Other common symptoms include:
- Heaviness/fatigue of the lower extremities.
- Restless legs.
- Varicose veins.
- Discoloration of skin around the ankle or lower leg.
- Ulcers or skin wounds developed on the ankle or lower leg.
- Worsening of the above symptoms as the day progresses.
- A cluster of spider veins near the ankle (Corona phlebectatica).
What Are the Treatment Options?
The treatment of these veins can be done non-surgically and often non-invasively. When you come in for your appointment, our team will take the time to evaluate your condition and determine the best treatment approach. Some of our treatment options include:
- Radiofrequency Ablation – the use of energy to shut down the malfunctioning vein to permanently stop the abnormal flow of blood.
- Endovenous Laser Ablation – use of laser energy to close the malfunctioning vein.
- Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy – use of a chemical agent known as a sclerosant to permanently shut down abnormal veins.
- Conservative measures – use of compression, exercise, elevation, and weight loss when applicable help alleviate the symptoms from venous insufficiency.
Varicose Veins Treatments in Michigan, Illinois, & Kentucky
If you struggle with varicose or spider veins on your legs, we can help. Our top-rated podiatrists at Beyond Podiatry offer effective treatments to help your legs look and feel better again. To learn more, schedule your visit online or over the phone with your nearest office.
