Vein problems are more common than you think and often go unnoticed until they cause pain or other symptoms. The issues can range from spider and varicose veins to more serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). While some vein problems can be treated at home, others may require the care of an El Paso vein surgeon.
There are various causes of vein problems, including;
Family history: If your parents or grandparents had problems with their veins, you might also be more likely to have them.
Occupations requiring long-standing periods: Teachers, factory workers, hair stylists, and nurses are a few examples of professions often resulting in vein problems.
Obesity: Excess weight can pressure your veins, making them more likely to become varicose.
Pregnancy: A growing baby’s extra weight and pressure can cause vein problems.
Hormonal changes: Menopause, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy can contribute to developing vein problems.
Age: Veins can weaken and lose elasticity as you age, making them more likely to become varicose.
Apart from the causes highlighted, these are some of the symptoms you should know;
Aching or throbbing in the legs: This is often worse after standing or sitting for long periods.
Heavy feeling in the legs: You may feel like your legs are difficult to move or that they are “heavy”.
Cramping in the legs: You may experience periodic cramping, similar to Charley horses.
Swelling in the legs: This may be especially noticeable in the evening or after standing for long periods.
Itching: You may have itchiness around one or more veins, often worse when your leg is elevated.
Discoloration: The skin around the vein may become darker and take on a bluish, brown, or reddish tint.
A vein specialist can provide some services to help improve the appearance and function of your veins. Some of the services that a vein doctor offers include:
Sclerotherapy
This service is used to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. It involves injecting a solution into the vein that will cause it to collapse. Once the vein has collapsed, blood will reroute through healthier veins. After that, the collapsed vein will be absorbed by your body. Before the procedure, you must understand that not all veins can be treated with sclerotherapy, and multiple treatments may be required to achieve desired results.
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT)
EVLT is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat larger varicose veins. It involves inserting a small laser fiber into the vein and using it to heat and seal it shut. Once the vein is sealed, blood will reroute through healthier veins. This procedure is often done in conjunction with sclerotherapy.
Vein ligation and stripping
When you have vein problems, the valves in your veins may be damaged. This damage prevents blood from flowing properly and can cause the veins to become enlarged. Vein ligation and stripping are used to remove damaged veins. The surgeon will make small incisions in your leg and insert a special device into the vein. The device will pull the vein out through the incisions.
If you are experiencing any symptoms associated with vein problems, make an appointment with your vein specialist at the i-VASCULAR center.
