New treatment options and changing opinions on varicose veins are helping millions of people across the globe to see this “vascular disease” as a treatable condition rather than a cosmetic problem they have to live with. Varicose veins are among the commonest of venous disease, where it affects about 25 million Americans. The irregularly dilated and sometimes uncomfortable veins can occur almost anywhere in the body. However, they frequently develop on the legs and feet.
Venous hypertension (high pressure in the veins) resulting from malfunctioning of the valves exerts pressure on the thin-walled blood vessels causing them to dilate and appear close to the skin. Varicose veins become visible as red or blue bulges or lumps on the legs.
The occurrence of spider veins
The increased blood pressure on the larger veins is transmitted to the smaller veins located close to the skin. As the small veins dilate, they become visible by forming a network of blue veins commonly known as spider veins.
Who is affected by varicose veins?
Varicose veins and spider veins can affect almost anyone. However, the risk of developing these conditions is high in older people and those with a family history of vein problems. Studies have shown that varicose veins easily affect women than men. It is believed that hormones, especially estrogen play a role in the development of varicose veins in women during or after pregnancy.
Also, people who have had blood clotting problems are more likely to develop varicose veins. Some occupations may contribute to the development of varicose veins, especially those that require long periods of standing or sitting. Other factors that may increase the odds of developing venous diseases include being overweight and leading a sedentary lifestyle.
What can you do to keep venous diseases at bay?
Diana Wilsher, a vein doc at Metro Vein Centers recommends maintaining healthy body weight, engaging in regular physical activities and avoiding long periods of standing and sitting as some of the measure patients can take to reduce the likelihoods of developing varicose veins. Keeping your legs elevated, even for short periods can help to relieve symptoms of increased blood pressure on the legs.
Patients experiencing swelling on the legs and feet may use compression stockings to relieve the symptoms of varicose veins and venous hypertension. These stockings exert a steady pressure on the veins thus promoting blood flow to the heart. If you are enduring symptoms of varicose veins, talk to a vein doc dedicated to the treatment of venous diseases to learn about the available treatment options.
The treatment process involves a thorough assessment where the vein doc captures detailed history. Physical examination and ultrasound are then used to determine the venous function of your legs.
Treatment options for venous diseases
In the past, treating varicose veins involved a surgical operation to remove the damaged veins (vein stripping). However, in the last decade, technology has evolved that allows for treatment of varicose veins in an outpatient clinic setting. The modern treatment options for varicose veins are minimally invasive thus eliminating the need for hospitalization and long recovery times.
How Metro Vascular Centers can help in treating varicose veins
Metro Vein Centers are situated in Pennsylvania, Texas, New York, Michigan, and New Jersey. Unlike other vein clinics in the country, Metro Vein Centers are unique since they employ some of the most qualified vascular medicine specialists. They also offer a complete array of treatment options that address the root causes of venous conditions while giving the best results to their patients. They are also committed to continued research in a bid to refine their work and contribute to the overall practice of vascular medicine.
Dr. Diana Wilsher is a vein specialist offering her services at Metro Vein Centers, Dearborn, Michigan. She is a board-certified Family Medicine Physician, and she has been in practice for the last two decades. Dr. Diana is driven by the desire to improve her patient’s quality of life and give them the best care possible.
