Quick Links
What Are Varicose Veins?
Veins carry deoxygenated blood back toward the heart. Venous insufficiency occurs when blood flow toward the heart decreases, resulting in pooling in the veins of the legs. It typically occurs because the one-way valves in the veins become weakened. Normally, these valves help blood flow upward against gravity by keeping it moving in a single direction. If they don’t work as they need to, it can allow blood to flow backward, increasing pressure in the veins and resulting in pooling. When blood pools in the legs, the veins can begin to bulge, thicken, or become rope-like. These are called varicose veins.
Symptoms and Risk Factors
The most noticeable symptoms of varicose veins are aching and pain in the legs. Additionally, the legs may feel heavy or fatigued, especially with only light activity. Varicose veins may also be visible on the surface of the legs, producing noticeable protrusions with a gnarled, bumpy, rope-like appearance to the veins.
One of the most prominent causes of varicose veins is excess weight – this puts pressure on the blood vessels of the legs, weakening the valves over time. Excess weight includes body weight or pregnancy. Varicose veins are more common in older women but can affect any age or gender. Additionally, a family history of varicose veins or venous insufficiency can put you at a higher risk. A sedentary lifestyle or long periods of standing can also be a risk factor for varicose veins.
How Are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?
Varicose veins may be diagnosed with a simple physical exam if they are visible. However, other options such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be needed. A venogram may also be used, which injects a specialized dye into the bloodstream that becomes visible with an X-ray. Once our expert team has a comprehensive picture of the veins in the area, they can recommend the appropriate treatment options.
Varicose Veins Treatment Options
A few minimally invasive treatment options are available for varicose veins. One of the most advanced and groundbreaking options is endovenous laser ablation (EVLT) which uses a thin, flexible laser fiber to generate heat in the vein wall, causing it to close. Once closed, the blood is rerouted through nearby healthy veins. Sclerotherapy is a similar procedure that injects a chemical irritant into the vein, causing it to close. It may be reserved for smaller veins or spider veins. Finally, phlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes the affected varicose vein using a special instrument and very tiny incisions. All options can be performed at our spa-like surgical suite as an outpatient procedure. Our providers will help you select the best possible treatment option during a consultation.
Schedule a Consultation
Varicose veins can be easily treated by our experts here at South Florida Vascular Associates. We offer a comfortable experience that avoids the need for a hospital stay. To learn more, contact our offices serving the greater Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, and Plantation, FL areas. You can schedule an appointment by calling or filling out our online form.