Varicose veins – Signs, complications, and best vein care centers
Most veins carry deoxygenated blood from different body parts and bring it back to the heart. However, certain vein diseases can interfere with this function. One example is varicose veins, a chronic venous disease affecting three in every ten adults. It usually occurs in the legs and feet, obstructing blood flow. This article quickly explains what varicose veins are, the symptoms, complications, and the best vein treatment centers that can help.
What are varicose veins?
Simply put, varicose veins occur due to high blood pressure in the veins. As mentioned, the veins carry deoxygenated blood from different body parts toward the heart. The valves in the veins ensure the blood flows in a one-way direction. Sometimes, these valves become weak, so the blood accumulates, forming a big blue or purple bulge. These bulges usually appear in veins in the legs and feet just under the skin surface.
Spider veins are a slight variation of varicose veins. These are small red and blue blood veins spread across muscles on the calves, arms, or even the face. They are called spider veins because they spread like the spider’s web or like the branches of a tree. These tiny veins do not cause pain but are easily visible on light skin. While varicose and spider veins do not pose a significant risk in some patients, they could sometimes be fatal. So, individuals are advised to visit good vein treatment centers.
Symptoms of varicose veins
The intensity of the symptoms varies from person to person. The most common ones include:
Bulging veins
Swollen veins that look like twisted ropes are a primary sign of this condition. The affected veins are usually the ones right under the skin. They look prominent because of their blue and purple color.
Heavy legs
The cluster of veins puts excess pressure on the muscles, especially those on the calves. Therefore, one experiences leg pain, cramps, and leg sores and feels more tired after physical activity.
Itching
Varicose veins are sometimes accompanied by an irritable itch. It can make one feel uncomfortable in public spaces. Besides itchiness, one may notice redness, scaling, and flaky skin.
Swelling
Varicose veins can also lead to swelling in the calf muscles and feet. Sometimes, the swelling is accompanied by throbbing pain, but it could also be a sign of another condition.
Venous ulcers
In severe cases, or if left untreated, varicose veins can lead to ulcers or open wounds in the ankles or legs. They develop over a while in several stages and may be undetectable initially.
Complications of varicose veins
If one does not experience pain or irritation, varicose veins could go undetected and become severe. It can cause blood clots in the legs that could be fatal. If the clots travel through the system and reach the heart or lungs, they can cause a heart attack or respiratory complications. Besides, painful ulcers can develop around varicose veins and cause occasional bleeding. Therefore, individuals must visit one of the many vein treatment centers or even the nearest doctor for a timely diagnosis.
Best vein treatment centers
Besides home remedies like wearing elastic stockings, many professional treatment options are available. Here are a few vein treatment centers that help cope with the situation:
Vein Clinics of America (VCA)
This is among the best vein treatment centers. They help patients understand the causes and complications of different vein diseases and provide excellent support. VCA follows a minimally invasive approach with treatments like endovenous laser ablation, phlebectomy, and radiofrequency ablation. Patients can avail of a first-time free consultation if eligible and even get financial assistance. VCA operates across 14 states with over 50 clinics.
Total Vein Treatment Centers
Another top option among vein treatment centers, Total Vein helps patients cope with the symptoms, making the condition more manageable. They treat disorders like spider veins, varicose veins, and venous reflux. The treatments include sclerotherapy and phlebectomy, among others. Another advantage is that Total Vein offers cash discounts, which bring down the cost of treatment.
Center for Vein Restoration
This treatment center operates in about 20 states. They help patients prevent and treat venous disease with various options, including ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, laser ablation, and ambulatory phlebectomy. Treatment options for spider veins are also available. This center offers compression stockings along with first consultation and financial assistance.
Treating varicose veins and spider veins can significantly improve mobility, enhance sleep, alleviate pain, and improve the patient’s quality of life. Patients can consider visiting the above viable vein treatment centers if diagnosed with venous disease.