What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that are visible under your skin. Any vein in your body can become varicose, but they’re most common in your legs and feet. That’s because you place pressure on these veins from walking, standing or sitting for long periods of time.
Over time, the stress you place on your legs and feet can cause your veins to become thickened, gnarled, and enlarged. These changes result in excess blood pooling in your veins, rather than returning to your heart.
You’re more likely to develop varicose veins if you:
- Are older, as wear and tear increase with age
- Have a family history of varicose veins
- Have a job that keeps you on your feet
- Sit for extended periods of time
- Are overweight or obese
Varicose veins are more common among women than men because female hormonal changes can weaken vein walls and increase vein pressure.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
The first sign that you have varicose veins is usually a change in the color of the veins on your calves or thighs to dark blue or purple. As the condition progresses, these veins start to bulge and twist and look like cords.
In addition to the appearance, varicose veins can cause uncomfortable symptoms in your legs, including:
- Aching or heaviness
- Cramps, throbbing and burning
- Increased pain after extended periods of standing or sitting
- Itching around the affected veins
- Discolored skin surrounding the veins
If your varicose vein symptoms are bothering you, schedule an appointment for treatment at Desert Foot and Ankle.
How are varicose veins treated?
Treatments for varicose veins include:
Compression stockings
Wearing specialized stockings all day can help improve blood flow in your legs, preventing blood from pooling in your veins. Though there are over-the-counter stockings, your podiatrist can prescribe custom-fitted stockings.
Self-care
The symptoms and appearance of varicose veins often improve when you lose weight, exercise, elevate your legs, and take breaks from sitting or standing.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is an in-office procedure that involves injecting varicose veins with a substance that causes them to fade within a few weeks.
Laser treatment
Your Desert Foot and Ankle doctor uses high-intensity light to close your varicose veins.
The right treatment approach for your varicose veins depends on the severity of your symptoms, the size of your varicose veins, and your personal preferences.
You don’t have to live with varicose veins. To schedule an appointment at Desert Foot and Ankle, call or use the online booking tool today.
