Varicose Veins

Varicose veins usually result from valves in the veins that are not working properly. The purpose of valves in the veins is to open and close to move blood toward the heart. Sometimes these valves are damaged and blood is not pushed up but instead pools in the veins. This pooling of blood creates varicose veins.

Valve damage is usually due to:

hereditary abnormality of the vein wall
obesity
pregnancy
standing for long periods of time

In addition to these causes, varicose veins are more common in women than in men.

Varicose veins can cause:

dark purple or blue veins
veins that are bulging or look like rope under the skin
aches or cramping in the legs

When the veins are severely damaged, they can create skin ulcers around the ankle that require medical attention.

Treatment

North Carolina Surgery has been providing specialized care for venous disorders for decades. Although surgical procedures are sometimes the best option for patients, new technology provides a wide range of treatments, many that can be done right in our office. These less invasive treatments have benefited our patients in several ways including faster and easier recovery.

Although varicose veins will get worse over time, you can help prevent progression by:

early treatment
exercising
wearing compression stockings
elevating your legs

If your condition continues to worsen, contact the experts at North Carolina Surgery for treatment. Our physicians will evaluate your veins to check blood flow and rule out other serious conditions. If you are suffering from severe leg pain, skin ulcers or want to improve the appearance of your legs, there are various treatments to fit your needs and lifestyle.

Noninvasive treatments include:

sclerotherapy (saline is injected into the veins so they harden and disappear)
radiofrequency ablation (uses heat to destroy the veins)
laser ablation (uses heat to destroy the veins)

For severe cases, surgery may be an option. Our physicians will discuss with you different treatment plans to determine how to achieve the best results.