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Varicose veins: Symptoms and treatment

One in four are afflicted by varicose veins. Learn
about varicose veins below.

It isn't often that you will acquire a medical condition that requires decisive action - however, when a person has varicose veins they need to know that not only are there several treatment options available, but there are things that they can start doing today that can potentially ease their discomfort. Nobody likes having a medical condition, even one that is treatable.

What Are Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins, often dark blue in color, near or raised above the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are often a symptom of an underlying condition called venous insufficiency.

Known Risk Factors

An estimated 10-20% of adult Americans have varicose veins. While the precise cause of varicose veins is not known, a number of contributing risk factors have been identified.

Varicose Vein Treatment

For people with only mild symptoms, home treatment is the recommended course of action. While home treatments are not a cure, they will help to alleviate discomfort and slow the progression of the condition.

Treatment Options

The VNUS Closure procedure is a minimally invasive treatment alternative to traditional vein stripping surgery for venous reflux, a common underlying cause of varicose veins. The Closure system was cleared for marketing in the US in March 1999. The Closure procedure is becoming increasingly popular as doctors become more familiar with this treatment.

Symptoms

People with varicose veins may notice visibly twisted, swollen veins just below the skin's surface. In addition, some will experience discomfort from swelling, throbbing or cramping at night. Additionally, because the skin tissue around the varicose vein may not be receiving enough nourishment, itching or burning of the skin over the vein is not uncommon.

Vein Exam

If your varicose veins become red, swollen or tender and warm to the touch, you should see a doctor. If you experience heaviness, fatigue, or pain in your legs, you should consult a physician.

Potential Complications

Varicose veins are common and are not always associated with more severe health problems. However, they can become painful, unattractive and worsen over time. Varicose veins can cause legs and feet to swell, creating a sense of fatigue in leg muscles and throbbing and cramping at night. The skin surrounding the veins may also itch and burn.


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