Varicose Veins

Varicose Vein Treatment Roswell, GA

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins  that can happen anywhere in the body, but are more common on the legs and feet. They occur when the valves within the veins malfunction, causing blood to pool and the veins to become swollen and distorted. They are not considered a serious medical condition, but they can cause some discomfort and lead to more serious issues, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) with severe varicose veins.  However, seeking professional evaluation and treatment at AR Roswell in Roswell, GA can help alleviate symptoms and improve the appearance of varicose veins.

What do Varicose Veins Look Like?

Varicose veins are easily identifiable due to their characteristic appearance. They often appear as bulging, twisted, or rope-like veins that are bluish or purplish in color. Varicose veins can be visible just beneath the skin’s surface and may cause a raised or bumpy texture. Their size and severity can vary, ranging from small, spider-like veins (known as spider veins) to larger, more prominent varicose veins

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins can be caused by a combination of factors that contribute to the weakening and malfunctioning of the veins’ valves. Understanding these underlying causes is essential in managing and preventing varicose veins effectively.

Causes of Varicose Veins include:

  • Genetics: A family history of varicose veins increases the likelihood of developing them. Genetic factors can influence the strength and integrity of the vein walls and valves, making some individuals more susceptible to venous insufficiency.
  • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can affect the vein walls’ elasticity and weaken the valves. Increased levels of progesterone during pregnancy, for example, can dilate the veins and lead to varicose vein formation.
  • Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Occupations or activities that involve long periods of standing or sitting can place excess pressure on the veins, impeding proper blood flow and causing the veins to enlarge and become varicose.
  • Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on the veins, impairing blood circulation and increasing the risk of varicose veins.
  • Pregnancy: The increased blood volume and hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to enlarged veins and weakened valves, making pregnant women more susceptible to developing varicose veins.
  • Age: The risk of varicose veins increases with age as the veins naturally lose elasticity and the valves become less efficient in preventing blood from flowing backward.
  • Gender: Women are more prone to developing varicose veins compared to men due to hormonal factors and the pressure exerted on the veins during pregnancy.

Understanding the underlying causes of varicose veins is crucial in determining the most appropriate treatment options and preventive measures.

How do Varicose Veins Form?

Varicose veins form when the valves within the veins, responsible for directing blood flow back to the heart, weaken or become damaged. This valve dysfunction allows blood to flow backward and pool within the veins. Over time, the increased pressure and pooling cause the veins to stretch, enlarge, and become varicose. Factors such as prolonged sitting or standing, pregnancy, and obesity can exacerbate this process, further contributing to the formation of varicose veins.

When to Worry about Varicose Veins

While varicose veins are generally not a cause for immediate concern, certain symptoms may indicate a need for medical attention. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, heaviness, or redness in the affected area, or notice skin changes, such as ulcers or sores, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, if you develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg swelling, which may indicate complications like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, immediate medical evaluation is necessary.

Why do Varicose Veins Hurt?

Varicose veins can cause discomfort or pain, often described as aching, throbbing, or a heavy sensation in the affected area. The pain may worsen after prolonged periods of standing or sitting. The discomfort associated with varicose veins is primarily due to the increased pressure within the veins and the resulting inflammation. Seeking professional evaluation and treatment at AR Roswell in Roswell, GA can help alleviate pain and improve your overall well-being.

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that can happen anywhere in the body, but are more common on the legs. They are not considered a serious medical condition, but they can cause some discomfort and lead to more serious issues, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) with severe varicose veins. 

Varicose vein treatment

Not all varicose veins call for treatment, however, some people may feel uncomfortable with their appearance and prefer them to be treated for their own satisfaction. Other varicose veins need to be treated due to discomfort or worsening conditions. Some treatments include but are not limited to

  • Elevation of the legs
  • Compression stockings
  • Vein stripping
  • Sclerotherapy
varicose veins on a leg in women. ,Health care concept

Sclerotherapy for varicose veins

Sclerotherapy is a simple procedure we use here at AR Roswell, where one of our trained professionals will inject a solution into the affected veins, which will cause them to collapse, and, over time, the collapsed vein will turn into scar tissue, making it no longer visible. 

Sclerotherapy treatment for varicose veins does not hurt. The veins lose their color and become invisible within three to six weeks, but it may take up to three to four months for complete healing for the larger varicose veins. 

What to avoid after sclerotherapy

After a sclerotherapy treatment, you may return to normal daily routines, sometimes compression stockings are suggested to help with healing. We do ask some of our patients to avoid certain activities within the first 48 hours after treatment including: 

  • Hot baths
  • Anti-inflammatory medications other than acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Saunas
  • Tanning and tanning beds

Varicose Veins Treatment at Ageless Remedies of Roswell

At Ageless Remedies of Roswell in Roswell, GA, we provide personalized evaluations and effective treatments to address varicose veins, helping you achieve healthier, more comfortable legs. Our team in Roswell, GA can guide you through the available options and develop a customized plan to alleviate symptoms and enhance your overall well-being.

Call us today or book your appointment online.