About Varicose Veins

These large veins are the major blood return pathways from the legs to the heart, however, there are numerous “collateral” veins that pick up the slack once a varicose vein is eliminated.

The simple cause is venous insufficiency. This means the veins aren’t working properly and allowing blood to go backward instead of forwards. As veins are put under the tremendous stress of having to work against gravity, during pregnancy or after knee surgery or hip surgery, the quality of vein seals begins to deteriorate. The seals in the inside the veins no longer make sufficient contact and they start to get stretched out which then allows blood to go backward, stretching them out even more.

As the vein keeps getting more and more dilated, the valves work less and less efficiently. Over time, the vein ceases function almost completely. At that point, the veins become so enlarged that blood is sitting still, pooling, not circulating back to the heart. Elevating the legs frequently and wearing compression socks can help these poorly functioning veins, but only medical treatment can eliminate the veins completely.  

Varicose veins are a medical issue and treatment can be covered by medical insurance as they are often associated with various symptoms. Leg pain, cramping, heaviness, tenderness, restless leg, skin rashes, open wounds and infections can all occur with untreated varicose veins. An ultrasound is necessary to determine the severity of your varicose veins and whether your insurance will cover the procedure. 

Treatments Options:

Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT): This minimally invasive procedure is performed in the office with the use of a catheter with a laser tip that is used to seal the varicose vein shut from the inside. After a week, the ultrasound shows over 99% of the time that that vein has been sealed shut and is already circulating that blood through better working channels. Patients typically walk out on their own and many times they actually feel better within that first week. They are able to return to daily activities right away. Getting up and walking around immediately is key for getting the blood to re-circulate.