Varicose veins are a common condition among older people, women and those who are overweight or obese. They are often a mere cosmetic concern, but can cause or indicate other more serious health problems for the sufferer. Since varicose veins are considered unsightly, many people who suffer from them would like them removed, but many do not know how to do so.
Varicose veins are sometimes confused with spider veins, which tend to be much smaller. Spider veins involve capillaries, which are normally the width of one red blood cell. Since varicose veins are larger, many people opt for varicose vein removal.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are unusually large veins found near the skin of the legs. They may cause itching, aching or tiredness. Our doctor can diagnose these types of veins using a visual examination.
Exactly why varicose veins form is not known, but the key point to remember is that they are formed when there is a weakness in the vein walls. This weakness gradually causes the veins to become inelastic, and the problem veins stretch, becoming wider and longer. In order to occupy their normal position or space, the veins are forced to become convoluted or ropey, appearing as a twisted bulge under the surface of the skin.
If you are experiencing negative effects from varicose veins, you may make a good candidate for varicose vein removal. In addition to their unsightly appearance, varicose veins can ache and cause leg fatigue. The ankle and lower part of the leg may itch, leading to scratching and a rash or redness.
A minority of people suffering from varicose veins experience complications like bleeding, phlebitis or dermatitis. Dermatitis is a skin irritation forming an itchy, scaly, brown area on the leg above the ankle.
Scratching varicose veins can lead to bleeding or the formation of a painful ulcer that resists healing or may bleed. Phlebitis or vein inflammation can occur either due to an injury or spontaneously. The condition can be painful, but is rarely dangerous.
When Should I Consider Varicose Vein Removal?
You should consider having your varicose veins removed if they are causing problems like itching, inflammation or redness. The condition is mostly cosmetic in nature, but if associated problems like these are happening, you should schedule a consultation to see if the situation needs to be addressed.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a method of varicose vein removal that seals the vein to prevent blood from flowing through it. Then a special solution is injected into the vein, which causes the vein to collapse. Your own body will then absorb the destroyed vein.
Other Procedures
At Cardiology Consultants of Southwest Florida and The Vein Center, we offer a variety of treatment options for varicose veins, ranging from non-chemical thermal ablation to phlebectomy to laser ablation. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation to learn more about how our services can help you.
