Varicose Veins 101: What really causes them and what can I do to prevent and treat them?
We’ve all seen the telltale signs of varicose veins—enlarged, twisted veins that often appear as a purple-blue bulge under the skin, especially on the legs. But what exactly are varicose veins?
According to the Canadian Society for Vascular Surgery, varicose veins are prominent, dilated veins and “part of a spectrum of chronic vein problems” that can be found in up to 20% of the adult population. If you’re struggling with varicose veins, you are definitely not alone!
What causes varicose veins?
While the causes of varicose veins can vary, they often appear due to a weak or damaged valve within a superficial vein. A strong healthy valve prevents the backflow of blood and keeps blood flowing to the heart.
When a valve is weak, the blood begins to pool in the vein and put pressure on the vein walls, eventually resulting in spider veins (a less severe form of varicose veins) or an enlarged varicose vein which is visible and often uncomfortable.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
Symptoms of varicose veins can vary in severity and may include:
Bulging or twisted superficial veins that are blue or purple
Pain or a feeling of heaviness in the affected leg
Itching, burning or swelling
Changes to skin texture and colour
Who is at risk for varicose veins?
Varicose veins can occur in anyone, but there are a few factors that may make you more prone to experiencing them, including:
The risk of varicose veins increases as you age due to the natural weakening of the valves in your veins over time.
Women are more likely to experience varicose veins due to hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy or menopause.
Family history can play a part as varicose veins can be hereditary.
Being overweight can put extra pressure on your veins and lead to damage that results in varicose veins.
Standing or sitting for long periods of time can increase your risk of varicose veins.
Can I prevent varicose veins?
Since varicose veins have several risk factors that are outside of our control (such as family history) it’s not possible to prevent them altogether. However, a healthy lifestyle may help to delay the onset of varicose veins or keep existing veins from becoming worse.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “exercising, losing weight, not wearing tight clothes, elevating your legs, and avoiding long periods of standing or sitting — can ease pain and prevent varicose veins from getting worse.”
How are varicose veins diagnosed and treated?
A doctor can diagnose your varicose veins and may perform additional tests depending on the severity. Here at Cosmetic Medical Clinic and Vein Clinic, we begin with an in-depth consultation and assessment. This allows us to provide a very thorough, customized approach to varicose vein care.
We offer four effective treatments for varicose veins including:
Bauerfeind Compression stockings
The stockings reduce pooling of blood in varicose veins and improve circulation.
VenaSeal™ Sapheon Closure System
Adhesive is inserted directly into a varicose vein to seal it closed.
Sclerotherapy
Medication is introduced into the veins by a physician or nurse to fibrose and close off unsightly veins that are not useful to your circulation.
Foam Echosclerotherapy
An injection of foam sclerosant is introduced into the vein and guided to the junction of the vein in order to close it.
How can I learn more about what treatments are right for me?
At Cosmetic Medical Clinic and Vein Clinic, we’re proud to offer cutting edge treatments for varicose veins. We believe in starting with a thorough assessment right in our clinic so that we can provide an accurate, customized approach to treating your varicose veins. We want you to feel informed and confident when it comes to making a decision about treatment options.
You can learn more about our vein clinic and treatment options at our vein clinic. If you have questions or would like to book a consultation, please get in touch.