What are Varicose Veins and why do I have them?

Woman before varicose vein laser treatment

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen veins, which may cause discomfort and aching around the ankles. Simply put, varicose veins are caused by the weakening of the vein walls. They are more common in females who have had a pregnancy or who are on their feet for long periods of time is more common in people who are obese, pregnant, or over 50 years of age. Treatment options can vary but usually include clot-busting medications, surgery, and the wearing off-the-shelf compression devices. If you are struggling with varicose veins or have more questions about your symptoms, the MVM health team is ready to help you find relief

Do I have Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are a manifestation of a vein disease that has been identified as venous insufficiency. They are characterized by swollen, blue, and twisted veins located in the lower extremities. They are especially common in the legs and most often found on the calves, ankles, or feet.

The diagnosis of varicose veins can be made during your physical examination with one of our expert physicians. Dr. Mariam Salisu, Dr. Vwaire Orhurhu, and Dr. Mohamed Osman will perform a thorough examination including examining for the pain and swelling of the veins, as well as the appearance and severity. Although varicose veins can be easy to see in some situations, it is important not to self-diagnose. Doing so can prevent you from getting the right treatment and support to help you recover and manage discomfort.

Do varicose veins hurt?

Varicose veins are a painful condition that affects millions of people. The pain is often caused by damaged veins. The veins lose their elasticity which causes them to become twisted and bulging. When a vein becomes varicose, it can cause pain, swelling, heaviness, and itchiness. It is important to get treatment for varicose veins so they don’t get worse and cause other symptoms.

What causes Varicose Veins?

Several factors can cause varicose veins, including a family history of varicose veins, pregnancy, chronic constipation, standing for long periods of time, being overweight, or a combination of those factors. Varicose veins are caused by a build-up of pressure in the veins, which causes the valves that slow blood flow to weaken. This causes the blood to pool in the veins and causes them to swell. The veins may also leak blood or have a blood clot.

Treatment for Varicose Veins.

There are many different treatments for varicose veins. Your treatment plan will address the issues you are having including chronic pain, blood clots, and cosmetic distress. Our team will also take into consideration any other symptoms or illnesses you may have as they may be a contributing factor to your condition. The most popular treatment is called varicose vein removal surgery, and it is known to be one of the safest and most effective treatments for varicose veins there is. 

All of the physicians & staff at MVM Health – Pain, Vein & Wellness are committed to providing personalized treatment options to help grant our patients a new opportunity at achieving a high-quality life. We treat every patient like family and maintain a patient-centered approach. Our specialists relentlessly place the needs of our patients at the forefront of our work. With our wide variety of pain management and regenerative therapies, living pain-free is simply one call away.

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