Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are dilated tortuous veins that most commonly arise in the legs. Varicose veins are more than just unsightly – they can be associated with complications such as chronic leg swelling, irreversible skin changes, and ulcers.

Benjamin Wilson, DO, John Yoo, MD, and the team at Vascular & Interventional Specialists have considerable experience in the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. To learn more, schedule an appointment online or call the Fort Worth, Texas, office today. 

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are abnormally enlarged and dilated veins, most frequently involving veins of the legs. They are a very common condition affecting millions of Americans.

What causes varicose veins?

Veins are blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart. Most contain tiny valves that open and close to keep blood moving in the right direction as it circulates through the body. When these valves become incompetent, blood can begin to flow backward through the valves, resulting in a build-up or “pooling” of blood downstream. 

This pooling causes pressure along the vein, which ultimately leads to dilation and elongation of the vein. As veins enlarge, they often bulge from the skin surface and appear purplish or bluish. Varicose veins are more common with age, and they can also be caused by weight gain/obesity, pregnancy, standing or sitting for long periods, sedentary lifestyles, smoking, and family history. 

What symptoms do varicose veins cause?

Some very small varicose veins may cause no symptoms, but larger or more numerous veins can cause:

• Leg swelling
• Itching
• Cramping, burning, or stinging sensations
• Night spasms
• Feeling of fatigue or heaviness in the legs or feet
• Skin changes, including skin damage that can lead to ulcers
• Skin infection (cellulitis)
• Bleeding

How are varicose veins treated?

Today, there are many options for treating varicose veins; and depending on your symptoms, treatment may include lifestyle modification, compression garments, thermal and non-thermal venous ablation, and/or minimally invasive surgical techniques to remove damaged veins. Prior to any treatment, however, your Vascular & Interventional Specialists provider will perform a comprehensive exam that will help determine the most appropriate approach for optimal results.

If you have varicose veins and are looking for effective treatment options, call the office today. You can also request an appointment by reaching out online.