What You Need to Know About Varicose Veins

Dedicated therapies that alleviate painful symptoms and uncover a whole new you.

One of the most widely diagnosed vein disorders in the United States is varicose veins. Varicose veins are seen in nearly one-quarter of all American adults.

Mild cases of varicose veins won't necessarily require medical intervention or cause physical symptoms (apart from the appearance of the veins). However, it might be time to seek medical solutions when varicose veins have developed to such an extent that they cause discomfort like leg fatigue, heaviness, pain, or itching.

You don't have to struggle with varicose veins. Georgia Endovascular offers exceptional varicose vein care using leading-edge treatments and technologies. Our team of professionals has in-depth experience in varicose vein treatment, ensuring patients get the best possible care.

Learn more about the symptoms, risk factors, potential complications, and treatments for varicose veins.

What Is a Varicose Vein?

Varicose veins are tortuous, enlarged veins visible just under the skin’s surface. They are usually blue or purple and are mainly found in the legs and feet, though they can occur in any superficial vein.

Why Do You Get Varicose Veins?

The primary function of veins is to carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart and lungs. One-way valves inside the vein work like tiny flaps, helping prevent blood from flowing backward.

When these valves become weak or damaged, blood can pool in the veins, causing them to enlarge and become varicose.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Several factors can contribute to the development of varicose veins, including

A family history of varicose veins
An older age (50+)
Being female
Being pregnant
Being overweight or obese
Having a sedentary lifestyle
Sitting or standing for long periods
Having chronic constipation

While any of these factors can increase your risk for vein damage, the exact cause varies from person to person. That’s why it’s so important to examine your legs regularly and watch for early warning signs of varicose veins, such as

Itchy, flaky skin
Shiny, taut skin
Discolored skin

Understanding why you get varicose veins or factors that may increase your risk is crucial for maintaining long-term vein health.

Why Is Pregnancy a Risk Factor for Varicose Veins?

Pregnancy is a risk factor for varicose veins due to increased weight and pressure on the lower body veins.

As a woman’s uterus expands with the growing fetus, it compresses the pelvic veins. This compression can prevent proper blood flow to the legs, potentially leading to weakened vein valves and varicose veins.

What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins develop symptoms when the enlargement of the veins increases the pressure in the veins and causes discomfort. The increased pressure can also cause skin damage in the affected areas.

Severe cases of varicose veins can cause the following conditions

Aching or burning sensations in the legs
Leg swelling
Leg cramps
Itching in the affected area
Skin discoloration
Ulcerations
Swelling

Varicose veins can be treated to reduce the risk of complications such as skin ulcers, thrombophlebitis, and deep vein thrombosis. Varicose veins may also be treated to reduce the discomfort and pain associated with them. Additionally, some people may choose to have varicose veins treated for aesthetic reasons.

How Are Varicose Veins Treated?

At Georgia Endovascular, our interventional radiologists use several minimally invasive techniques to treat varicose veins. These treatments are usually performed under local anesthesia and do not require stitches. Your physician will perform a comprehensive evaluation before recommending the optimum treatment approach.

The goal of these treatments is to diminish varicose veins and reduce the symptoms associated with them. They include the following techniques

Dedicated, Effective Varicose Vein Solutions

Georgia Endovascular offers the highest standard of care for varicose veins. With experienced and skilled interventional radiologists who provide a patient-centered approach, we ensure the best care for each individual. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and successful treatment experience.

Varicose veins can be an uncomfortable and disfiguring condition, making it difficult to participate in everyday activities. With the proper treatment, you can minimize the appearance of varicose veins and enjoy life again. Don't let varicose veins affect your quality of life; get the treatment you deserve today.