Patient Information
Do you experience..
Varicose veins?
Painful legs?
Swelling or numbness in the legs?
Skin discoloration in the legs?
If so, you may be one of 20 million Americans who suffer from superficial venous reflux…
Venous reflux is often the underlying cause of varicose veins, and frequently causes people to dramatically change their lifestyles, especially when they are active and can no longer tolerate being on their feet. (Does this describe you?)
Whether the initial cause is pregnancy, weight, genetics or prolonged standing, the physical effects of varicose veins are the same:. The valves in the saphenous vein are damaged and the veins near the skin surface are stretched and distorted from the increased pressure caused by blood flowing in the wrong direction. Venous reflux in the saphenous vein is often the underlying cause of varicose veins. Although the condition is rarely life-threatening, it is often painful and unattractive.
Well…now there is a solution to vein pain!
VeinMed affiliate offices offer state of the art outpatient procedures designed to get you back on your feet within a day. Our procedures are performed in the physician’s office and are usually covered by most insurance, including Medicare!
Following the procedure a simple bandage is placed over the treatment site, and a compression bandage may be provided to aid healing. Your doctor may encourage you to walk, and to refrain from strenuous activity for a period of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins affect between 10% - 27% of the general population; they are characterized by large twisted swollen veins that can be seen close to the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are usually caused by a condition known as venous insufficiency, which exists when the valves in these veins become damaged, allowing blood to flow into the lower leg. This can be a painful condition and often causes the legs to feel heavy or numb.
Left untreated, patient symptoms are likely to worsen with some possibly leading to venous ulceration.
Why does it occur more in the legs?
The best explanation is gravity. With damaged valves, the blood is forced by gravity into the lower extremity where it pools in the veins allowing them to become swollen and distorted.
Who is at risk for varicose veins?
Several conditions may contribute to varicose veins, including pregnancy, obesity and genetics. Additionally this condition can be worsened by occupations that require standing for long periods of time.
What are the symptoms?
Varicose veins may cause the legs to ache or feel numb, and the feet and ankles may swell.
What are venous leg ulcers?
Venous ulcers are areas of the lower leg where blood has pooled resulting in poor circulation. This can cause the skin to die and create an open wound. These can be extremely painful.
How are varicose veins treated?
Initially, conservative therapy might be suggested, which requires treatments including wearing compression stockings. These treatments almost never result in a long term solution. The most effective treatment is an outpatient procedure performed in the doctor’s office. This treatment can be performed using either a radiofrequency technique called Vnus Closure, or by using an endo venous laser technique (EVLT).
What is vein stripping?
Vein Stripping is a surgical technique that is performed in the O.R. of a hospital. Performed under general anesthesia, the vein is tied off and pulled out. The legs are bandaged after the surgery but swelling and bruising may last for weeks.