Ask the Experts Blog

It may be difficult to recognize the difference between regular veins and varicose veins. Even though veins can be seen, they may not necessarily be varicose veins. It’s important to spot the difference so that you can take action to get the relief you need.

Varicose veins can be caused by a variety of reasons. These include older age or weak valves, which prevent blood from flowing back up toward the heart. The veins appear blue because the blood that returns to the heart is deoxygenated.

How to spot varicose veins:

• Blue or dark veins
• Veins that twist and bulge, which look similar to electrical currents
• Pain or a heavy sensation in the legs
• Veins which are itchy or bleed
• Swelling, cramping, throbbing, or burning in the affected area
• Pain that worsens upon standing or sitting after a long period of time

Symptoms that require immediate medical attention include veins have hardening, change in color, beginning to develop open wounds, or your skin swelling.

Spot the difference between varicose and spider veins:

Spider veins look like tiny webs on the ankles, legs, and upper thighs.	Ropy, dark blue, red, or flesh-colored       varicose veins are most common      on the thighs, calves, and feet.

Many individuals who live with visible veins may be too embarrassed to wear shorts or dresses as a result. For many people who have visible veins, their appearance isn’t the only problem. Varicose veins can cause legs to ache or swell, feel heavy and tired, or like they’re burning.

"The typical symptoms of varicose vein problems usually occur more at the end of the day," said Peter Paximadis, MD. He continued, "It’s from being on your feet or sitting for hours with the pooling in the veins so symptoms get worse throughout the day.

Many people are either not aware of treatment options for varicose veins or fearful of it. "As technology and medicine have advanced, procedures for varicose veins have come a long way," explained Dr. Paximadis. He further said, "procedures are no longer invasive treatments which require extended hospital stays. In fact, many treatments are quite quick and you can return home soon after."

Specific treatment for varicose veins will be determined by your healthcare provider based on:

• Age, overall health, and medical history
• Expectations for the course of the condition
• Extent of the condition
• Signs and symptoms
• Tolerance of specific medicines, procedures, or therapies
• Your opinion or preference

There are a variety of treatments that can ease symptoms and make your legs look better, including:

• Newer nonsurgical minimally invasive therapies
• Sclerotherapy (injecting veins with a chemical)
• Self-care
• Surgery

If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of varicose veins, then it may be time for you to speak to your doctor about what treatment options are available to you.

If you experience tired and achy or painful legs, or if your legs feel restless at night, you may suffer from Varicose veins.  Contact the Lakeland General Surgery, St. Joseph office to see what treatment may be best for you.