Terri Ramsey Beavers The dilation of superficial veins causes varicose veins to develop. Many times, patients with varicose veins suffer from low self-esteem issues because varicose veins can be unsightly. The medical care providers at University Pain Medicine Center eliminate varicose veins in Clark using various cosmetic vein treatment options to help patients feel better about their appearance.
To better understand the treatment of varicose veins, it is crucial to be aware of:
1. What are the risk factors for varicose veins?
A patient with a genetic link to varicose veins is at a higher risk of developing the condition because one can inherit it from family members. Another risk factor for developing varicose veins is having had deep vein thrombosis in the past.
2. What are the symptoms of superficial vein dilation?
- The most apparent sign of vein dilation is the unpleasant appearance of dilated veins in the legs.
Standing for long periods can cause the appearance of isolated calf varicosities. As the disease progresses, the veins distend and patients will begin to notice them in the limbs’ proximal parts. Some patients also report experiencing varicosities during their first pregnancy, with the veins rapidly increasing in size.
- The ankles then start to swell.
Edema is another common symptom of varicose veins. Swelling in the ankles is usually due to the veins failing to transport blood efficiently. As a result, fluid builds up in the area.
- Pain
This symptom of varicose veins can first present as limb heaviness which can develop into an ache. Typically, the discomfort or pain increases when a patient stands for long periods or is walking.
- You may experience skin pigmentation or eczema.
Varicose veins sometimes lead to the development of severe skin pigmentation changes, especially in trauma. Patients with chronic venous disease also report a tendency to experience ulcer formation.
3. The steps involved when diagnosing varicose veins
Once a patient notices the appearance of the veins, he or she should immediately seek medical care. The physician in charge will start by performing a physical examination on the patient’s affected limb. A thorough assessment involves examining the limb when a patient is in a standing position, with the physician taking note of edema, skin pigmentation, and dilated intradermal venules. Specifically, the physician should evaluate the dilated superficial veins, which are the varicose veins.
4. The treatment options for varicose veins
The disease steadily worsens as it progresses and may start causing complications. In considering symptoms like pain are medical indications for intervention, treatment will vary depending on the cause and severity of the disease. The options available at University Pain Medicine Center include:
- Reassurance: Sometimes varicose veins fade on their own.
- Compression therapy: This conservative treatment option involves a patient wearing medical compression stockings which are great for relieving symptoms like edema.
- Endovenous therapy: This treatment can involve sclerotherapy, endovenous laser therapy, or radiofrequency ablation.
- Surgery: When less invasive methods fail, physicians usually recommend open surgery to treat the varicose veins’ root cause completely. Most of the time, surgery will permanently eliminate the unsightly veins, thus offering long-term relief.
If you notice varicose veins in your legs, contact University Pain Medicine Center to understand your treatment options or book an appointment to receive comprehensive diagnostic testing.