Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that can happen anywhere in the body but are most common in the legs. While not considered a serious medical condition, they can be uncomfortable and can lead to more serious problems. Some people may find them embarrassing or unsightly.
Spider veins are a milder, smaller type of varicose veins that have the appearance of a spider web. They are commonly found on the legs and face and are red or blue in color.
Varicose veins are caused by increased blood pressure in the veins. Blood returns to the heart through the veins, which contain one-way valves. When these valves become damaged or weakened, blood can collect in the veins, causing them to become enlarged.
Signs of varicose veins include veins that appear bulging and twisted (like cords) and/or veins that are blue or dark purple. Varicose veins can cause burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in the legs, itching around the veins, a heavy or achy feeling in the legs, increased pain after sitting or standing for a long time, and changes in color around the area of the veins. Complications of varicose veins are rare but can include blood clots, ulcers and bleeding.
There are certain conditions that are considered to be risk factors for varicose veins. These include smoking, pregnancy, being overweight, being a woman, being sedentary, being older, having a leg injury and/or taking birth control pills.
A duplex ultrasound of the legs is sometimes used to help diagnose varicose veins in addition to a full history and physical exam.
The first line of treatment for varicose veins usually includes resting with legs elevated and/or compression stockings that squeeze the legs and help blood drain out of the legs more efficiently. If these steps don’t work or in severe cases there are other procedures that can help. Laser therapy, sclerotherapy, high ligation, vein stripping, ambulatory phlebectomy, and catheter-based procedures using radiofrequency or laser energy can all help to remove and/or cause varicose veins to fade.
Bio-Touch is a powerful and effective technique to help address the pain and stress caused by varicose veins. It can be used as a complement to any other therapies.
The information presented here is for educational purposes only. Medical advice is neither offered nor implied. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
