Varicose veins are enlarged veins, which unsightly bulge under the skin. This condition can cause a lot of discomfort to a person and make them feel self-conscious. There are a number of factors that cause varicose veins in men and women - to have children with obesity to genetics. What many people do not realize is that they do not have to live with varicose veins. There are several ways to treat the disease. Here are some frequently asked questions about varicose veins, the symptoms and the latest advances in the treatment of disease.
Q. Who suffers from varicose veins?
A. Varicose veins are actually very common and affect up to 30% of the population. They are more often seen in women who have had children but there is also a strong genetic component as well. Most patients with varicose veins have either a mother or a father with a history of varicose veins. Patients who are obese and have spent long periods of standing may also have a higher incidence of varicose veins as well.
Q. What are the symptoms not cause varicose veins?
A. Varicose veins can cause a range of diseases, including pain, itching, swelling, heaviness and fatigue. In the most severe cases, they can bleed or cause ulceration (skin tears) that can be very difficult to cure.
Q. What can we do to prevent the symptoms of varicose veins?
A. Aside from weight loss, there is really no way to prevent varicose veins. The symptoms are however relatively easy to treat with simple compression stockings. These come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors and can be either prescription or nonprescription. Only low knee high compression is necessary in the majority of patients and should only be worn during the day. Be vigilant with them is often enough to improve symptoms and prevent aggravation
Q. What if compression stockings do not work?
A. When the symptoms of varicose veins are not improved with compression stockings, or patients can not tolerate their use, it is important that they see a doctor who specializes in the treatment of varicose veins. There are a multitude of different procedures to treat veins today, and the old vein "stripping" is rarely done.
Q. What happens when you see a doctor vein?
A. Most office Initial evaluations begin with a thorough history and physical examination. Photos are often taken from the leg with varicose veins. A painless ultrasound is then generally allows the physician to determine where the problem is and help respond to treatment.
Q. What treatments can the physician for varicose veins?
A. The most common form of treatment in contemporary practice is either radiofrequency ablation or laser ablation of varicose vein. This procedure is usually performed in the office without sedation or anesthesia. A small needle is inserted into the vein after the numb skin and a catheter (approximately the size of a piece of spaghetti) is placed in the vein. The area around the vein, it is numbed and the catheter is then turned which processes the entire vein. There is minimal discomfort during the procedure and after the procedure is over the leg is wrapped with an ace wrap for support.
Another treatment option is to inject a drug into the vein that chemically treats the vein. The drug is very safe (it is essentially a soap like substance) and takes about 5 minutes to
We hope we have answered some of your questions about varicose veins. If you deal with this condition or have additional questions, visit the Vein Center site UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, or call 412-802-3333 to make an appointment.
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