subject: Varicose Veins: Don't Let Your Damaged Veins Get You Down [print this page] Varicose Veins: Don't Let Your Damaged Veins Get You Down
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are abnormally thick, twisted veins that can occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the legs, ankles and feet. Often dark purple or blue, varicose veins are easy to identify from their bulging, twisted appearance. Varicose veins are more common in women than men.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins occur when valves in the veins that assist with the flow of blood to the heart malfunction. Varicose veins are most common in the ankles, feet, and legs because those parts of the body are farthest away from the heart. When standing, gravity pulls blood downward toward the legs and feet, and as a result, causes the veins in the legs and feet to work extremely hard to pull the blood back to the heart. Over time, these veins can become worn out, often leading to varicose veins.
Symptoms
Varicose vein symptoms can range in severity depending on how bad an individual's varicose veins are. Symptoms may include swelling and numbness in the legs, easily fatigued legs, aching, a feeling of heaviness in the legs, darkening of the skin, and an itchy, irritated rash. Severe cases of varicose veins can sometimes cause more serious health problems. When the veins are having trouble pulling blood back to the heart, there's an increased chance of blood clotting.. If a blood clot reaches the lungs, it can be life threatening. In certain cases, skin ulcers or sores may occur around the varicose veins.
Diagnoses
Typically, varicose veins are diagnosed based on their appearance. However, there are certain diagnostic tests that can be done to verify that an individual is suffering from varicose vein symptoms. The doctor may perform an ultrasound to utilize high frequency waves to measure blood flow and take a closer look at vein structure.
Treatment
There are several options for treating varicose veins. Sclerotherapy, one of the most common treatments, involves the doctor injecting the damaged vein allowing the vein to close thus sending the blood flow to a healthy vein. However, this treatment may not provide a long-term solution for varicose vein symptoms. Herbal supplements can also be taken to treat varicose veins. A herbal supplement can be taken daily and can reduce and prevent varicose veins. Laser therapy can also be used to remove varicose veins; however, it's extremely expensive. Perhaps the best treatment, VNUS Closer Procedure is the least invasive treatment, often leaving patients with less bruising and pain after the procedure. VNUS Closer Procedure is cosmetically appealing and boasts a 97.4% efficacy rate at one-year.
