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Is Varicose Vein Treatment Really Necessary?

Blog Author August 9, 2016
Varicose veins typically appear twisted and ropelike, protruding above the surface of the skin.  These blue or purple veins are cosmetic concerns for most people.  However, there are a number of important reasons for a patient to seek varicose vein treatment in order to get rid of these unwanted blood vessels.

Overview

As many as 60 percent of Americans suffer from varicose veins, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.  These abnormal vessels most often develop in the legs and the feet when one-way valves in veins weaken.  This causes blood to leak backward and collect in veins instead of moving upward toward the heart.  The resulting stretched vessel is a varicose vein. There are many risk factors for developing these atypical vessels.  The most common include:
  • Genetics
  • Being female vs. male
  • Aging
  • Various types of hormonal changes, including pregnancy
  • Standing for extended periods
  • Carrying excess weight
  • Circulatory problems between veins and arteries
  • Specific diseases or injuries

Varicose Vein Issues

In addition to a varicose vein’s unattractive appearance, patients who see Florida vein doctors might experience a range of other symptoms:
  • Legs that ache or feel heavy, sore, or tender
  • A burning sensation in the lower legs
  • Swollen feet or ankles, particularly after standing
  • Noticeable skin breaks
  • Itching around a vein
  • Skin ulcers in the vicinity of the ankle
Physicians cite a number of reasons for treating varicose veins.  The major ones include psychological issues, discomfort, and medical complications. For some patients, these abnormal vessels steal self-confidence.  They create psychological issues best resolved by eliminating the targeted vessels at a vein clinic. Varicose veins also sometimes become extremely painful.  Some individuals cannot tolerate the discomfort from throbbing, aching, or other symptoms. The Mayo Clinic cites three types of varicose vein complications that, while rare, require treatment:
  • Skin ulcers that form close to varicose veins, particularly near an ankle, can be very painful and might be preceded by a discolored spot on a patient’s skin.  They are the result of higher-than-normal blood pressure within the veins affected.  It is necessary to see a physician right away if a patient suspects an ulcer.
  • Blood clots might occur when deep leg veins become enlarged vessels.  Significant swelling is common.  Sudden leg swelling is an indicator of a clot and warrants urgent medical care.
  • Bleeding might occur when a vein close to the skin bursts.  It also requires medical attention.

Florida Vein Treatment Options

Physicians offer a number of treatments for varicose veins.  The most common are ambulatory microphlebectomy, ultrasound-guided chemical ablation, and laser ablation. Patients can help prevent the development of varicose vessels by losing excess weight and getting regular exercise.  However, no treatment from a vein specialist can prevent the formation of new varicose veins.  Therefore, some patients opt to return for periodic treatment sessions.