Varicose Veins are a very common problem, generally appearing as twisting, bulging rope-like cords on the legs, anywhere from groin to ankle. While many people have heard of varicose veins, very few understand their underlying cause and the potential they have for developing into a serious medical issue.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins affect an estimated 40% of women and 25% of men. Factors leading to Varicose Veins include heredity, gender, pregnancy, age and other factors. Some factors may speed up the development of this disease and make the veins worse, including prolonged standing, obesity, hormone levels, and physical trauma. Arteries carry blood from the heart to the extremities, delivering oxygen deep into the tissue. Veins then return the ‘de-oxygenated’ blood (now blue) back to the heart to be re-circulated. To return this blood to the heart, leg veins must work against gravity. Small, one-way valves in the veins open to allow blood to flow upward towards the heart and then close to prevent it from flowing backwards.
Varicose veins occur when the valves in superficial leg veins malfunction. When this occurs, the valve may be unable to close, allowing blood that should be moving towards the heart to flow backward, venous reflux. Blood collects in the lower veins causing them to enlarge and become varicose.
Varicose Vein Symptoms
In addition to the visual appearance of knotted and purplish veins, patients may experience one or more of the following leg symptoms:
- Pain (an aching or cramping feeling)
- Heaviness/Tiredness
- Burning or tingling sensations
- Swelling/Throbbing
- Tender areas around the veins
If you experience symptoms and delay treatment, the symptoms may progress to more serious complications:
- Inflammation (phlebitis)
- Blood clots (e.g., DVT)
- Ankle sores or skin ulcers
- Bleeding
The Vein Center at Johns Creek
At the Vein Center at Johns Creek, Dr. William H. Johnson, MD and his staff are devoted to offering the best quality vein treatment in a tranquil, relaxed, comfortable and professional setting. As well, the Vein Center at Johns Creek provides various options to fit your needs such as sclerotherapy and ambulatory phlebectomy.
If you have any questions or concerns about leg vein problems like Varicose Veins or Spider Veins, feel free to make an appointment or contact the staff. For easy availability, Dr. William H. Johnson is located in Suwanee, GA. He also serves the surrounding areas like Duluth, Lilburn, Alpharetta, Dunwoody, Chamblee, Doraville, Roswell, Sugar Hill, Buford, and Duluth.
Disclaimer
All information within this web page is not meant to take the place of professional medical advice. Be sure to make an appointment with Dr. Johnson or a specialist if you have any concerns.