A varicose vein is a result of venous insufficiency. The veins in the legs that fail to push the blood back to the heart and lungs become weak, and the valves that help push the blood against gravity stop working properly. When this happens, the blood starts to gather in the veins, causing them to bulge and look blue.
Varicose veins are not always dangerous, but they are unsightly and often cause embarrassment. If they are left without any kind of treatment for too long, they can develop into a more serious condition, such as blood clots, leg ulcers and extreme cramping and swelling.
Before there are obvious signs of varicose veins, there are certain symptoms, such as:
• Veins that are dark blue or purple without bulging
• A heavy feeling in the legs
• A burning or throbbing sensation in the legs
• Pain that worsens after standing or sitting for long periods
• Itching around veins for no apparent reason
When the beginning signs of varicose veins begin to appear, it may be enough to wear compression stockings, get more exercise and put your feet up above your heart for 20 to 30 minutes every day. However, if the symptoms are serious, such as large, twisting veins seen just below the surface of your skin, it may be time to consider treatment to get rid of the varicose veins.
During a consultation with our specialist, your medical history will be evaluated and your varicose veins diagnosed. You may learn about treatment options depending on the seriousness of your condition. Fortunately, there are several non-invasive treatments that do not require hospital stays or an uncomfortable recovery. The main treatments are:
• Sclerotherapy is a procedure that requires our specialist to inject a small amount of a solution into the affected vein. The solution irritates the inside wall of the vein, causing it to collapse. In about two to three weeks, the vein will completely disappear, having been absorbed by the tissue that surrounds the vein. This procedure is usually done on small or medium-sized varicose veins.
• Catheter-assisted procedures include laser energy and radiofrequency. These are also non-invasive. The laser or radiofrequency is inserted into the vein through a small catheter to destroy the vein wall and make the vein gradually disappear.
• Microphlebectomy, also called ambulatory phlebectomy, is a procedure where our specialist removes varicose veins through tiny punctures in the skin.
If you are wondering if it’s time to consider varicose vein treatment, you can get your questions answered by our specialist at Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center in El Segundo. All of the less invasive treatments available today can be done in our office. We also serve the Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your consultation to learn more.