Varicose Veins, Swollen Veins, Visible Veins and Vein Pain
Many think varicose veins only affect women, are caused by too much standing, or that they are a natural part of old age. Although varicose veins often appear toward the lower thigh, around the knee and in the calf, the cause of the problem is often higher up in the greater saphenous vein.
Genetics play perhaps the largest role in the development of vein disease, with gender and age not far behind, though varicose veins can affect people as young as 20. Women tend to present more varicose vein disease; though it affects nearly 1 in 5 men as well.
The most common medical origin of varicose veins is known as reflux of the greater saphenous vein. This major circulatory component runs from groin to ankle. It joins many tributaries and connects to the deep vein system through vessels known as perforator veins.
Veins contain a series of one-way valves that move blood toward the heart. Failure of these valves causes blood to flow backwards and to pool and stretch the walls of veins in the lower leg. We call this venous reflux. This causes the unsightly, symptomatic veins we know as varicose veins.
Other factors can influence the severity or speed of vein disease, including weight, prolonged standing, and physical trauma. Age is a factor because as we grow older, vein walls lose elasticity, causing the valve system in veins to work less effectively. Patients can change their lifestyles to address vein disease but cannot reverse it. Unfortunately, largely, if you were going to develop the problem, you cannot avoid it.
Vein disease will not resolve on its own or with home remedies. The only way to heal varicose veins is with vein treatment.
Benefits of Vein Treatment at the Laser Vein Center
- NO PAINFUL VEIN STRIPPING
- ONLY LOCAL ANESTHESIA IS USED, INCREASING THE PROCEDURE’S SAFETY
- QUICK AND EFFECTIVE CUTTING EDGE LASER TECHNOLOGIES USED
- QUICK TO NO RECOVERY TIME
- COMPREHENSIVE STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS ENSURES THE BEST RESULTS
- NON-COSMETIC VEIN TREATMENT IS COVERED BY MOST INSURANCE POLICIES
- MULTIPLE SAFE TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE
- CONTACT DR. WRIGHT TODAY TO LEARN MORE!
How Are Veins Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is performed on the surface of the skin via ultrasound while you are standing upright. It is completely noninvasive. This is the best way to assess the function of veins. As a transducer follows the veins, it sends and collects sound wave information that assesses the anatomy and flow of blood in the veins. There is very little to no discomfort associated with this test. Normal results show the blood in veins flows well with augmentation or compression of the calf and stops quickly after the augmentation is over. An abnormal result will show where veins are performing poorly. There are no risks associated with this procedure.
Vein treatment is quick, minimally invasive, and is covered by most insurances. Dr. Wright can perform diagnostics and advise you of your options so that you may understand and treat the condition.
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