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Understanding the Nature of Varicose Veins
The human body is an extraordinary thing! It can help us experience new things and protects us from the different elements we may encounter. As we grow older, the body slowly begins to show the impact of everything during our lifetime.
Our eyesight might not be as sharp, or our hearing can become muffled. In some cases, people may see the formation of purple and blue lines and bumps across their legs and thighs, more commonly known as varicose veins. These wilted blood vessels occur in about 60% of adults.
How do they form?
Dr. Iakovidis
Varicose veins are a common condition that is caused by weak or damaged vein walls and valves. Veins have one-way valves that open and close to keep blood flowing to the heart. When a weak/damaged wall or valve is present in the veins, it can cause our blood to pool and even flow backward, also known as reflux. As a result, the veins grow larger and distort, creating varicose veins.
Are there symptoms?
These are some of the most common symptoms associated with varicose veins, although they may vary between patients:
- Swelling in the legs
- Itching around the vein
- Arching pain
- Bulging, bluish vein(s)
- Skin color changes around the vein(s)
- A sense of heaviness in the legs
What can I do about varicose veins?
There isn’t a direct cure for varicose veins, but there are a few ways to help prevent this condition. Wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, try not to sit or stand for long periods, and wear compression socks for better circulation.
Dr. Lambert
Treatment depends on the level of symptoms that you are experiencing. A physician may recommend treatment or not at all. Commonly, a doctor will relieve symptoms, improve the appearance and try to prevent additional complications.
“It’s important to have a medical professional look at your vascular veins to see what impact it could be having on your health,” says Dr. Panagiotis Iakovidis, a Thoracic & Vascular Surgeon at Bond Clinic.
If you have questions about your varicose veins, Blond Clinic has two board-certified Vascular Surgeons. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 863.293.1191.
Content by Jared White, Assistant Marketing Director for Bond Clinic
