Vein problems are rampant, affecting over 27% of the US population, and the legs are the most affected. Vein conditions can worsen with age and, if not controlled, cause disability. There are various vein problems, such as spider veins, chronic vein insufficiency, and varicose veins. If you have any of these problems, it is important to consult a vein specialist Scottsdale, AZ.
Varicose veins are the most common of all vein problems and are characterized by twisted, enlarged veins. They can occur in the veins of your legs and cause swelling, aching, and throbbing. Varicose veins often run in families and are more common in women than in men.
Common symptoms of varicose veins include:
Ø Darker than normal or bluish-purple coloring of the skin around the veins (coloration)
Ø The sensation of heaviness, throbbing, or aching in one leg or both legs
Ø Tingling sensation or burning feeling around the top of the foot (usually on one side)
Ø Tiredness (fatigue) due to back pain
What are the risk factors for varicose veins?
Pregnancy and childbirth: The pressure on your veins during pregnancy increases your chances of developing varicose veins. They can be worse if you are overweight.
Obesity: Being overweight puts more pressure on your veins and increases your risk of developing varicose veins and other venous problems such as blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
Lifestyle factors: Standing for long periods or sitting with your legs crossed for extended periods puts pressure on the valves, which can cause them to fail or leak blood back into the leg veins. This causes swelling and bulging of the skin around the ankles (known as varicose veins).
Infection or inflammation: If you have had an infection or inflammation in your leg veins, such as cellulitis or lymphangitis, which may cause damage to valves within the veins. The valves control blood flow through small blood vessels by preventing the backflow of blood when we stand up or walk around after sitting down for some time since there is less pressure on them when we move around. If these valves become damaged, they can no longer function properly, allowing blood to leak back into your legs and causing swelling and varicose veins.
Injury to the vein walls: A blow to the leg can injure the vein walls and cause them to bulge out into larger-than-normal veins called varicosities or varicose veins (veins with an abnormal enlargement). This can lead to ulceration (rupture) and inflammation that causes swelling, tenderness, pain, itching, and discoloration of the skin around the affected area (also known as a spider).
What to do if you have varicose veins
The treatment for varicose veins depends on the symptoms. However, this condition can be treated through lifestyle changes, medication, or wearing compression stockings or bandages to help them feel better. If these treatments are not working, surgery may be an option.
Varicose veins can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but luckily, many treatments are available to help you feel better. The best treatment depends on your symptoms and your overall health. If you are suffering from any vein problem, seek help from Scottsdale Vascular Clinic.