Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are unsightly blood vessels that primarily develop on the legs. If you notice varicose veins forming, visit Lorven Heart and Vascular Institute, LLC, in Ocala, Florida. The experienced cardiovascular experts offer minimally invasive in-office treatments to destroy or remove troublesome varicose veins with minimal fuss. Call Lorven Heart and Vascular Institute, LLC, today to arrange a varicose vein evaluation or book using the online form.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are a common problem where veins — typically in the legs — become more visible and prominent. They may swell and look blue, red, or purple. As the condition worsens, veins form twisted coils that stand out from the skin. You may develop additional symptoms, such as:

• Leg pain
• Swollen legs
• Itchy veins
• Skin discoloration
• Leg cramps

Initially, varicose veins are a cosmetic concern rather than a serious health problem. However, they may indicate you have an underlying circulatory disorder that could cause problems in the future.

Why do I have varicose veins?

Varicose veins usually develop because of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). This condition results from poor blood flow in the veins carrying used blood back to your heart. The veins have tiny valves (gateways) that open to allow blood in one direction and close to stop gravity from pulling it back down.

Weakened valves don’t close fully, so blood trickles back and pools in the veins. This makes the veins swell and twist. Sometimes, the problem becomes so bad that fluid builds up in the tissues, and they deteriorate. Sores can develop that become venous ulcers — open wounds resistant to healing.

Anyone can get varicose veins, but they’re more common in older women. Smoking, working in a job where you’re on your feet all day, and excess body weight can all increase your risk of varicose veins.

How are varicose veins treated?

Wearing compression stockings helps with varicose veins by supporting the valves and helping blood return to your heart rather than pooling in your legs. Lifestyle changes like losing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding long periods of standing also help.

The Lorven Heart and Vascular Institute, LLC, team assesses your varicose veins and runs tests like venous ultrasound to examine your veins and blood flow. Techniques they use to treat varicose veins include:

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a liquid or foam irritant (sclerosant) into the varicose veins. The irritant collapses the veins and closes them off. They break down over time, and your body absorbs the remains.

Endovenous ablation

Endovenous ablation uses laser or radiofrequency energy to close the damaged veins.

Phlebectomy

Phlebectomy is a minimally invasive technique for removing larger varicose veins. Your provider makes a tiny nick at the top of the vein and pulls it out with a special instrument.

Call Lorven Heart and Vascular Institute, LLC, today to schedule a consultation or book a varicose vein evaluation online.