Who gets varicose veins?

Any vein can become varicose, and anyone can develop varicose veins. However, women are more likely to get varicose veins due to hormonal changes that relax the blood vessel walls.

Other factors that increase your risk of varicose veins include:

• Advancing age
• Family history of varicose veins
• Being overweight or obese

Additionally, people with occupations that require standing or sitting for long periods of time, like a teacher or professional driver, are more susceptible to varicose veins. Your blood doesn’t flow as well if you remain in the same position for long periods, so remaining active reduces your risk.

What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

Varicose veins are usually easy to recognize by their distinct appearance. However, varicose veins can also occur deeper beneath the skin where you can’t see them.

You may have varicose veins if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Heavy or tired legs
• Swelling near the ankles
• Leg pain and tenderness
• Restless legs
• Itching and burning
• Cramping and throbbing

If left untreated, these symptoms often worsen and may lead to serious problems such as blood clots or venous stasis ulcers.

How do you treat varicose veins?

First, Dr. Heird or Dr. Winand performs a physical exam and thoroughly evaluates your veins. Then, they recommend the best treatment for your particular condition. Dr. Heird at AVLC in York and Dr. Winand at the Lancaster location offer the following treatments for varicose veins:

Radiofrequency Ablation

This minimally invasive vein treatment uses radiofrequency energy to heat targeted blood vessels, causing them to collapse.

Sclerotherapy

This treatment involves injecting the problem veins with a special foaming solution that causes them to stick together, blocking blood flow. Over time, these veins shrink and either fade or disappear.

To learn more about varicose vein treatments, call Advanced Vein & Laser Center or book an appointment online today.