Varicose Veins
Half of all American women and almost half of American men suffer from some form of vein problem. Although many people suffer from this medical issue, most do not understand it. What exactly are varicose veins?
First, it's important to understand that the vascular system is a huge network of veins, arteries and capillaries with the heart at the very center. Oxygen and nutrient rich blood is transported by the arteries, and is delivered back to the heart through the veins. Blood-flow in the veins must move upwards, against the force of gravity.To deal with this, the veins have a series of one-way valves that open and close to allow the blood to flow upwards. When these valves are weak or broken blood pools in the legs causing varicose veins. This condition is known as venous insufficiency.
Appearance & Symptoms
Varicose veins usually occur closer to the surface of the skin and are often found on the back of the calf or on the inside of the leg. Symptoms typically include:
- A feeling of heaviness, tiredness, and aching, especially at the end of the day or after periods of prolonged standing.
- Swelling of the feet and ankles (due to stagnant blood leaking through the walls of the veins into surrounding tissues).
- Changes in skin color.
- Continual itching of the skin above the vein.
- The development of nonhealing ulcers at the ankles
Varicose veins often get worse over time, and because they are related to blood flow, can cause significant complications including skin ulcers that don’t heal and blood clots known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis).
At Horizon Surgical group, our treatment programs are customized to each patient and take into consideration all important factors. Treatment options typically radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy. For certain conditions, you may receive a combination of treatments.
Recovery time for radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy is rapid. Most of our patients return to work and normal activity the next day.
To schedule a consultation or receive more information, please contact us.
