Varicose veins are twisted and swollen purple or bluish veins found on the legs. They are most commonly found on the legs because of the pressure on the lower body from standing or walking. Varicose veins can range from mild to severe, with severe cases needing treatment. A more in-depth explanation would be that veins carry blood back to the heart, and when valves are in poor condition, they cannot do that properly and pool back into the veins. Besides the veins becoming twisted and swollen, they can cause the area to ache. This aching can include a burning and throbbing sensation in the legs affecting everyday activities in Utah.
Varicose veins can be caused by pressure or can be hereditary. In addition, certain factors increase the chances of having varicose veins condition, such as:
Age: Over time, veins get worn down and weaken, causing the blood not to flow properly and collect in the veins.
Sex: Varicose veins are most commonly found in women due to hormones that weaken the vein walls. However, varicose veins can also be caused by birth control methods and pregnancy.
Obesity: Obesity can cause more pressure on the veins and constrict the blood from flowing properly.
Prevention: Changing your lifestyle habits can help prevent varicose veins. Although varicose veins can be hereditary, increasing your chance of developing varicose veins. Some tips to help minimize your chances of developing varicose veins include; avoiding wearing high heels, avoiding confining clothing, avoiding sitting or standing for long periods, and exercising can help with blood flow.
Utah has many options for treatment for those suffering from varicose veins. A doctor might run exams and perform an ultrasound to see the best treatment.
This option is a pain-free procedure where the doctor uses an ultrasound machine as a guide and lasers to heat and cut off the vein.
Like endovenous ablation, the doctor uses an ultrasound machine to close off the vein by injecting medication directly into the vein. The medication closes the vein walls causing them to stick together and, over time, become reabsorbed in the body.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Doctors in Utah offer ambulatory phlebectomy. This procedure is for large surface varicose veins where the veins are pulled up and some carefully removed. Ambulatory Phlebectomy is a minimally invasive method and can be more effective than sclerotherapy.