Do you Suffer from Varicose Veins?

At South Florida Vascular Associates we use the latest, state-of-the-art techniques for the treatment of varicose veins and venous insufficiencies

Venous insufficiency involves one or more veins. Valves in the veins usually push the flow of blood toward the heart. When these valves are damaged, the blood leaks and pools in the legs and feet. This condition may also be caused by a blockage in a vein from a clot (deep vein thrombosis).

Chronic venous insufficiency is a long-term condition. It occurs because of partial vein blockage or blood leakage around the valves of the veins.

Risk factors for venous insufficiency include:

• History of deep vein thrombosis in the legs
• Age
• Being female (related to levels of the hormone progesterone)
• Being tall
• Genetic factors
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Prolonged sitting or standing 

Symptoms

• Dull aching, heaviness, or cramping in legs
• Itching and tingling
• Pain that gets worse when standing
• Pain that gets better when legs are raised
• Swelling of the legs
• The tortuous blue vein disease seen running down the leg
• Areas of small red/blue blood vessels in the skin known as spider veins

Treatments

Use compression stockings to decrease chronic swelling.

Avoid long periods of sitting or standing. Even moving your legs slightly will help the blood in your veins return to your heart.

• Aggressive wound care should be taken if any skin breakdown or infection occurs

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLT)

EVLT is a minimally invasive procedure where light emission (heat) from a laser fiber beam is used to cauterize, or seal,  the inside of the varicose vein wall. This method closes the unhealthy, refluxing vein. EVLT is an alternative to both traditional surgery such as vein stripping. EVLT requires minimal access to the vein.

If you suffer from any of the symptoms above, contact our office for more information on how we can help you to alleviate painful, unsightly varicose veins.