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Vein Disease FAQs
What is vein disease?
Veins are the blood vessels that return blood to the heart from the body. To overcome the force of gravity, inside the veins are one-way valves which open to allow blood flow to the heart, and close to prevent “reflux” of blood back to the body. When these valves fail to function, or if the vein is damaged so the valves do not completely close, blood can begin to pool in the vein and cause a variety of vein complications.
What are the different types of vein disease?
Spider veins are the small, thread-like colored veins that are most often seen on the surface of the skin. While many people seek treatment for spider veins for cosmetic reasons, spider veins also can result in substantial discomfort requiring therapy.
Varicose veins are the large, “rope-like” veins which are often ¼˝ or larger in diameter. Varicose veins generally grow in size over time and can result in substantial pain and complications if not treated.
How common is vein disease?
Vein disease of the legs is one of the most common medical conditions for both men and women. Approximately half of the population has some form of vein disease. Varicose veins affect between 15-25% of all adults, and approximately 50% of all people over age 50. Women have a higher incidence of vein disease than men.
How does vein disease occur?
The single most important cause of vein disease is heredity. Approximately 70% of all patients with varicose veins have parents with the same condition. Pregnancy, especially multiple pregnancies, is a contributing cause of vein disease. Other factors influencing vein disease are age, obesity and jobs which require long periods of standing.
Can vein disease be prevented?
Generally no. If you have a family history of vein disease, there is nothing you can do to change your genes. Being overweight can accelerate the progression of vein disease, and long periods of standing can also add to the problem. Diet and footwear are generally believed to be irrelevant in the formation of vein disease.
What are recommended treatment options for vein disease?
Depending on the type and stage of vein disease, the CRL VeinClinic offers multiple treatment options, including:
Endovenous Laser Therapy This is a new, minimally invasive alternative to surgical stripping to treat varicose veins. In endovenous laser therapy, a thin laser fiber is inserted into the diseased vein, generally through a small puncture in the leg above where the visual symptoms appear. Using ultrasound guidance to ensure proper placement, the physician then delivers laser energy through the fiber which causes the vein to close as the fiber is gradually removed. Endovenous laser therapy can be performed in less than one hour, and patients are encouraged to walk immediately following the procedure.
Sclerotherapy Used commonly for spider veins and small varicose veins, sclerotherapy involves injecting a small volume of a liquid into the diseased vein. The sclerosing liquid acts upon the lining of the vein to cause it to seal shut, eliminating the vein completely. Sclerotherapy can be quickly performed in our clinics and no anesthesia is required.
Ambulatory Microphlebectomy In this procedure, multiple, tiny incisions are made to hook and remove the diseased varicose vein one portion at a time. The procedure is performed under local anesthetic and the incisions are so small that no stitches are required.
If the vein is closed or removed by the treatment, where does the blood go?
Because there are many veins in the leg, the blood that would have flowed through the closed or removed vein simply flows through other healthy veins after the procedure. The loss of the diseased vein is not a problem for the circulatory system.
What are the benefits of the above therapies?
Compared to surgical vein stripping, the above therapies can be performed quickly and conveniently in our comfortable outpatient settings. Recovery times are reduced and scarring is minimized or eliminated. These therapies provide relief of painful symptoms while enhancing the appearance of your legs.
What are the complications of vein treatment?
Fortunately, the above therapies have rarely been associated with any serious complications when properly performed. Common minor complications of these procedures include bruising, mild itching, tingling, tenderness and tightness in the treated leg for up to two weeks after the treatment.
What can happen if varicose veins aren’t treated?
Varicose veins generally worsen over time. Initially, slight pain and restlessness in the diseased leg will be felt. If untreated, this pain will increase and result in limitations in walking and cramps during sleeping. Eventually, varicose veins can lead to open sores on the foot, blood clots and tissue loss.
Will insurance cover the treatment?
Many insurance companies cover the treatment of vein disease that is associated with pain and other complications, but individual insurance companies may limit the types of therapy that are covered. Check with your insurance carrier for details.
How do I know if I have vein disease?
Fortunately, most vein disease can be seen by looking at the size and color of the vein at the skin surface. In some cases, however, the diseased vein may be deeper in the body and not visible through the skin. As a result, paying close attention to other symptoms is important in diagnosing vein disease. Many patients with vein disease experience cramping, aching, burning, itching, soreness or “tired” or “restless” legs, especially in the calf muscles. If you experience these symptoms, our physicians can quickly and easily perform a test to determine if you have vein disease.
How can I get more information or schedule a consultation?
Simply contact us by phone, email or online form.
