Advanced Care for Varicose Veins, Spider Veins and Venous Ulcers
Varicose veins are abnormal blood vessels that usually develop near the surface of the skin. They occur when the one-way valves inside the veins malfunction and interrupt the normal flow of blood back to the heart. Instead, the blood may collect (pool) in the veins or even flow backwards. The stagnant blood can increase the pressure within the vein and weaken the walls of the vessel, causing the affected vein to become enlarged, twisted and clearly visible through the skin. Varicose veins can develop anywhere in the body but are most common in the legs.
Spider veins are a smaller, milder version of varicose veins. They often look like a red or blue sunburst or spider web on the skin of the face or legs.
Find Relief from Varicose and Spider Veins.
To schedule an appointment with a UH vascular specialist, call 216-844-3800 today.
Symptoms and Risk Factors for Varicose Veins
The most obvious symptom of varicose veins is visible, bulging, bluish-colored veins, most often in the legs. Additional symptoms may develop as the condition worsens, including:
- Color changes in the skin
- Sores on the legs (venous ulcers)
- Rash
- Sensations in the legs, such as a heavy feeling, burning, or aching
Varicose veins can occur at any age but are more commonly seen in older adults, women in particular. Additional risk factors include:
- Excess weight or obesity
- Extended periods of sitting or standing
- Family history of the condition
- Lack of exercise
- Trauma to the leg or leg veins
- Pregnancy
- Smoking or history of smoking
- Use of birth control pills (oral contraceptives) or hormone replacement
Understanding Varicose Veins and the Associated Health Risks
Although varicose veins are not considered a serious health problem, they are an early indicator of venous disease and can be very unsightly, uncomfortable and even painful. In addition, if untreated, the vessel walls may further weaken and lead to more serious problems, including:
- Inflammation of the veins (phlebitis)
- Superficial thrombophlebitis (blood clot in the vein)
- Pulmonary embolism (when a piece of a blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs)
Diagnosis and Treatment of Varicose Veins
If you have varicose veins that are bothering you for either physical or cosmetic reasons, it is important to be evaluated by a vascular specialist. At the appointment, your doctor will conduct a physical exam and take a complete medical and family history. He or she may also do an ultrasound test to check the blood flow and structure of your leg veins.
After the evaluation, the doctor will develop a treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms, age, general health and your expectations from treatment.
If your symptoms are mild, you may not require treatment. Your doctor may instead recommend some simple lifestyle modifications to prevent the condition from worsening. For example, you may be instructed to elevate your legs for 15 minutes several times a day to help reduce swelling and ease other minor symptoms. Other suggestions may include:
- Get regular exercise - walking is great for improving circulation in the legs
- Limit sodium (salt) intake
- Wear proper fitting shoes and avoid high heels
- Maintain a healthy weight
If the physical or cosmetic symptoms are severe, the vascular specialists at University Hospitals offer the most advanced treatments available, including:
Make an Appointment
Find Relief from Varicose and Spider Veins.
To schedule an appointment with a UH vascular specialist, call 216-844-3800 today.