What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted, and often discolored veins that commonly appear on the legs. Besides their noticeable appearance, they can sometimes cause discomfort, such as pain or itching. Varicose veins are very common and, thankfully, highly treatable.
.svg)
Causes
What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins can develop in many people, especially those with certain risk factors such as:
- Previous varicose vein surgery
- Age: About 50% of women over 50 have varicose veins
- Family history: Nearly half of patients have a close relative with varicose veins
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, particularly in women, can contribute to vein issues
- Pregnancy: Hormonal shifts and increased pressure on veins from the growing uterus can lead to varicose veins
- Chronic constipation
- Use of oral contraceptives
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases pressure on veins, weakening valves
- Prolonged periods of standing or sitting, which reduce circulation and cause blood to pool in the legs
- Lack of regular physical activity
- Past injuries or surgeries that may have damaged vein structures
- History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), as blood clots can harm vein valves
Frequency
How common are varicose veins?
Over 30 million Americans are affected by varicose veins, but fewer than 2 million seek treatment annually. This gap is largely due to a lack of awareness about Chronic Vein Disease (CVD), which is a medical condition beyond just cosmetic concerns.
Many patients are surprised to learn that treatments for varicose veins address more than appearance—they can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life. If you suffer from varicose veins, help is available.
Many patients are surprised to learn that treatments for varicose veins address more than appearance—they can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life. If you suffer from varicose veins, help is available.
Symptoms of varicose veins
The most noticeable sign of varicose veins is the appearance of bulging veins. Additional symptoms may include:
Restless legs
Heaviness in the legs
Fatigue
A sensation of burning
Tingling or numbness
General discomfort
Swelling in the legs or ankles
Cramping
Throbbing pain
Aching pain
Itching or irritation
Skin discoloration
(especially in advanced stages)
(especially in advanced stages)
Risks
More serious issues
While varicose veins are typically not dangerous,
untreated venous insufficiency can lead to more serious issues, including:
untreated venous insufficiency can lead to more serious issues, including:
- Bleeding from the veins
- Skin ulcers
- Painful, red, hard bumps (superficial varicose vein thrombosis)
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or deep clots
Dr. Salah Kary uses ultrasound technology to assess the risk for these complications and to guide treatment.
When to Request a Diagnostic Consultation for Varicose Veins?
Diagnostic methods
While varicose veins are typically not dangerous,
untreated venous insufficiency can lead to more serious issues, including:
untreated venous insufficiency can lead to more serious issues, including:
- Smoking combined with hormonal birth control increases the risk of thrombosis (blood clots) by 10 times.
- Hormonal contraception, particularly progesterone, weakens vein walls and can exacerbate varicose vein issues.
- It is advisable to get your veins evaluated before starting hormonal contraception, as early signs may not be visible.
- High heels can contribute to varicose veins by straining the calf muscles, which are responsible for pumping blood back to the heart.
- This strain can lead to blood congestion in the veins, which promotes the development of varicose veins. Women are 3 to 4 times more likely to develop varicose veins than men due to high-heel use.
What is Duplex Ultrasound?
Duplex ultrasound is a key tool used to assess vein health by measuring blood flow and identifying valve damage or vein abnormalities. The test provides a detailed evaluation of both deep and superficial veins and can diagnose conditions such as venous reflux and thrombosis. The entire exam usually takes about 20 minutes and is done while the patient is standing to allow gravity to affect blood flow naturally.
More serious issues
01
Whether veins are healthy or damaged, and the precise location of any problematic veins.
02
Whether affected veins are close to the skin (mostly cosmetic issues) or deep veins that may need specialized treatment.
03
Differentiates between harmless bluish spider veins (often visible due to thin skin) and veins that require medical attention.
04
Helps plan the extent and details of any necessary vein treatment procedures by providing accurate, real-time vein condition information.
Treatment
How is neuropathy treated?
Treatment for neuropathy focuses on managing the underlying condition, such as controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes. Medications like pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, or antidepressants may be prescribed to alleviate nerve pain. In some cases, physical therapy or lifestyle changes may be recommended to help manage symptoms and prevent further nerve damage. Nutritional supplements may also be used to correct vitamin deficiencies.
Dr. Salah Kary follows a step-by-step process to treat vein conditions. Your first visit will include a thorough assessment and evaluation of your symptoms.
Using ultrasound technology and vein mapping, Dr. Kary, a Canadian board-certified specialist, will accurately diagnose your condition and design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Using ultrasound technology and vein mapping, Dr. Kary, a Canadian board-certified specialist, will accurately diagnose your condition and design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
We offer a comprehensive range of treatment options, including:
· Conservative management
· VenaSeal™ Closure System
· Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
· Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
· Foam Sclerotherapy (FS)
· Visual Sclerotherapy
· Angie Thermocoagulation
· Conservative management
· VenaSeal™ Closure System
· Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
· Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
· Foam Sclerotherapy (FS)
· Visual Sclerotherapy
· Angie Thermocoagulation
Vein Disease Menu:
Contact us
Let’s get in touch!
We would love to discuss your options with you! Fill out the form below and a member from our team will be in touch with you shortly.
.svg)
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Book an appointment
Your health, our
dedicated team ready!
Your first appointment is an initial assessment and evaluation of your symptoms. DR. Salah Kary board-certified Consultant Interventional Radiologist use ultrasound guidance and vein mapping to evaluate your symptoms. Then will discuss with you a tailored treatment plan best suited to your needs.
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
