Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that develop when the valves inside your veins weaken, allowing blood to pool and veins to bulge near the skin’s surface. Most commonly appearing in the legs, varicose veins can cause aching, heaviness, and visible swelling. While often seen as a cosmetic concern, they are a sign of underlying venous insufficiency, a circulatory condition that can worsen over time without treatment.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
- Bulging, rope-like veins visible under the skin
- Aching, throbbing, or heaviness in the legs
- Swelling in the ankles or calves, especially after standing
- Itching or burning around the affected veins
- Discoloration or thickening of the skin near the ankles
- Restless or cramping sensations at night
Request a Consultation
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins develop when vein valves—responsible for keeping blood flowing toward the heart—become weak or damaged. This causes blood to flow backward (reflux) and pool within the veins, creating visible bulges.
Contributing factors include:
- Heredity or family history of vein disease
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes
- Aging and loss of vein elasticity
- Obesity or excess weight
- Prior leg injury or blood clot
How Varicose Veins Are Diagnosed
A board-certified vein specialist will begin with a physical examination and a review of your symptoms and medical history.
To confirm the diagnosis and identify the extent of venous reflux, an ultrasound evaluation is performed. This noninvasive imaging test allows your provider to see how blood flows through your veins and pinpoint areas of malfunction.
At United Vein & Vascular Centers, all diagnostic testing is performed in-office using advanced ultrasound technology, ensuring an accurate and comfortable experience.
Treatment Options for Varicose Veins
Our vein specialists offer minimally invasive, outpatient treatments designed to close off or remove diseased veins and restore healthy circulation.
Depending on your specific condition, your provider may recommend one or more of the following:
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses controlled heat to close damaged veins.
- Varithena®: Foam-based medication that seals the diseased vein.
- VenaSeal™: Medical adhesive that closes the vein without heat or anesthesia.
- Microphlebectomy: Removes visible surface veins through tiny skin punctures.
- Sclerotherapy: Injects a solution that collapses smaller varicose or spider veins.
Most treatments are completed in less than an hour, require little to no downtime, and are covered by most major insurance plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
While not always dangerous, untreated varicose veins can lead to complications such as skin discoloration, ulcers, or blood clots.
No. Varicose veins typically worsen over time without treatment, though early medical intervention can prevent progression.
Most patients report little to no discomfort during minimally invasive procedures, and local anesthesia is used when necessary.
Modern treatments address both the visible veins and the underlying reflux, minimizing recurrence when guided by a vein specialist.
Related Articles
Treatment Paths for Recurrent Varicose Veins
Recurrent varicose veins can be frustrating, painful, and discouraging. Many patients find that even after undergoing treatment, veins may reappear or new ones may develop. Understanding why varicose veins return is essential for managing the condition effectively and preventing further complications. Recurrence can be influenced by a variety of factors, including incomplete treatment, genetics, lifestyle habits, and underlying vein health.
Innovations in Non-Thermal Ablation Techniques for Varicose Veins
Varicose veins aren’t just a cosmetic issue, they can lead to pain, swelling, and discomfort that interfere with everyday life. While traditional treatments like thermal ablation have been the go-to solution, they come with their own set of limitations and risks.