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Varicose veins and spider veins have been with us since the beginning of the human race. The ancient Greeks coined the word “varicose” meaning “grapelike”. In 460 B.C., Hippocrates was the first to use it in the medical vernacular. A multitude of therapies have come and gone throughout the eras. Today, several options are available for those who suffer from varicose and spider veins. Below are listed the minimally invasive and non-invasive options provided by Alpine Surgical.
Before EVLT After EVLT
Varicose veins are a very common problem, generally appearing as twisted, bulging rope-like cords on the legs, anywhere from groin to ankle. While many people have heard of varicose veins, very few truly understand their underlying cause, and their potential for developing into serious medical issues. Varicose veins affect an estimated 40% of women and 25% of men. Factors leading to varicose veins include, but are not limited to, heredity, gender, pregnancy, and age. Some factors may speed up the development of this disease and make the veins worse, including prolonged standing, obesity, hormone levels, and physical trauma.
What are the symptoms? Will they get worse?
In addition to the visual appearance, many patients may experience one or more of the following leg symptoms:
· Pain (an aching or cramping feeling)
· Heaviness/Tiredness
· Burning or tingling sensations
· Swelling/Throbbing
· Tender areas around the veins
· Inflammation (phlebitis)
· Blood clots (e.g., DVT)
· Ankle sores or skin ulcers
· Bleeding
How do varicose veins occur?
Arteries carry blood from your heart out to your extremities, delivering oxygen deep into the tissue. Veins then return the ‘de-oxygenated’ blood back to your heart to be re-circulated. To return this blood to the heart, your leg veins must work against gravity. Small, one-way valves in the veins open to allow blood to flow upward towards the heart. Properly functioning, they then close to prevent it from flowing backwards. Varicose veins occur when the valves in superficial leg veins malfunction. When this occurs, the valve may be unable to close, allowing blood that should be moving towards the heart to flow backward (called venous reflux). Blood collects in your lower veins causing them to enlarge and become varicose.
Can varicose veins be prevented?
The underlying conditions described above usually make ‘curing’ varicose veins impossible. Certain measures may help relieve discomfort from existing varicose veins and prevent others from arising:
· Exercise regularly (walking is ideal)
· Avoid standing for long periods of time
· Avoid sitting for long periods
· Control weight
· Utilize Compression Stockings or Hosiery
Since the above measures do not treat the underlying cause of the disease, varicose veins may enlarge and worsen over time. Legs and feet may begin to swell. Sensations of pain, heaviness, burning or tenderness may occur.
Spider veins are similar to and often associated with underlying varicose veins. There are, however, some major differences. Spider veins are smaller in size, beginning as tiny red capillaries that lie close to the surface of the skin. These are easily visible. Spider veins are most commonly found on the thighs, calves, and ankles. They are generally only a cosmetic concern. However, they can cause physical symptoms ranging from aching, heaviness and itchiness, to night cramps.
Not all spider veins require treatment, particularly if they are not causing physical symptoms. Some people decide to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Treating these veins early may prevent worsening symptoms associated with venous reflux disease.
Treatment Alternatives for Varicose and Spider Veins:
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