Varicose Veins
Varicose veins effect approximately 40 to 55% of the population. Those fifty years of age and older are most likely to suffer from varicose veins as this condition effects 50% of this age group alone. Not only are varicose veins unattractive to look at, causing purple and blue bulging veins to appear most commonly on the legs, they are also painful to those that suffer from them.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Those suffering from varicose veins may notice several uncomfortable symptoms in addition to the blueish purple bulging veins that will appear. Varicose veins occur most often on the thighs and legs. The veins that are affected become enlarged due to being overfilled with blood, which is why they bulge out. They also become swollen and twisted which causes pain and sometimes an itching sensation. Those suffering from varicose veins have also complained of suffering from restless leg syndrome. This is a syndrome that causes those that suffer to want to move their legs constantly as to alleviate painful sensations. Varicose veins can be irritating and painful, but they are fairly harmless, although they have been known to cause blood clots. Knowing the cause of varicose veins may help some suffers to alleviate the condition, but many causes may be beyond a person’s control.
Common Causes
There are several common causes of varicose veins, including:
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Hormone shifts (such as during pregnancy and menopause)
- Obesity
- Chronic heart valve conditions
- Frequent standing (such as from occupations that require long periods of standing)
- Chronic constipation
- Genetics
Varicose Vein Treatments
Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and microphlebectomy are common treatments for those suffering from varicose veins. Varicose veins pose more than a cosmetic issue for our patients; they are indicative of problem in the lower extremity venous system.
Lower extremity venous disease and varicose veins are treated everyday at the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh by our medical director and surgeon, Dr. Terrance Krysinski. Vein Institute of Pittsburgh is a sister company to Cosmetic Laser Centers.
Call 724-934-8346 to schedule your medical evaluation for your unsightly varicose veins at the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh in either of our two locations, Warrendale/Wexford area or Robinson Township.
