Varicose Veins

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins occur when blood flow is cut off or restricted in certain veins, resulting in a bulging, misshapen appearance.

Healthy veins work against gravity to carry blood towards the heart; varicose veins develop when the veins weaken and this flow breaks down, resulting in blood pooling in the veins. Veins appear rope-like when this pooling of blood stretches and twists the vein.

Varicose veins appear most often in the legs and tend to strike women more often than men, but they can occur throughout the body. Varicose veins can be hereditary or caused by factors such as hormonal changes, obesity, and aging.

What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

Some varicose veins are treated solely for cosmetic reasons, while others are treated for medical reasons because of the pain and discomfort they cause.

Varicose vein symptoms include (but are not limited to):

• Bumpy, rope looking veins beneath the skin
• Itchiness
• Burning sensation around the affected tissue
• Pain in the vein or leg (also known as painful varicosities)
• Skin discoloration
• Cramping
• Aching
• Fatigue
• Heaviness
• Blood clotting
• Ulcers

Please contact your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

How are varicose veins treated?

Varicose veins are treated through various vein therapies, including:

• VenaCure EVLT™ (Endovenous Laser Treatment) uses lasers to shrink varicose veins in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. 

• Microphlebectomy removes large varicose veins through a procedure involving tiny needle punctures at the base of the vein.

• Sclerotherapy treatment involves the injection of a sclerosing solution into the vein itself. The solution irritates the blood vessel, leading to its collapse.

• Embolization techniques close off blood flow to affected veins through a minimally invasive catheter system. 

The physicians work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your varicose veins.

Is varicose vein treatment painful?

Minimally invasive varicose vein treatments should not cause significant pain and are performed as outpatient procedures. The team discusses your specific needs and treatment plan with you before the procedure, so you know exactly what to expect.

Book your appointment now to treat your varicose veins with the skilled physicians at Cambria Somerset Radiology’s vein center.