When the warm weather rolls in during the summertime, everyone wants to shed the layers and put on a bathing suit or pair of shorts. While some people look forward to showing off their legs, others struggle with the idea of exposing them in public due to the presence of varicose veins.
If you're one of those people who feel self-conscious about your legs due to large varicose veins, don't worry, you're not alone. Both large and tiny varicose veins are a common condition that affects up to 20% of adults(opens in a new tab) in the United States.
While women are more likely to develop varicose veins than men, and the condition is most common in people over the age of 50, they can affect anyone.
At Sinai Laser Vein Center, it's important to us that our patients know that they are not alone in their battle against varicose veins, and that varicose vein removal is available. We offer cutting-edge laser varicose vein treatment options that can help improve the appearance of your legs and boost your confidence.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear on the legs. While they can occur anywhere in the body, varicose veins are most common in the legs and feet because standing and walking upright increases the pressure in the veins of your lower body.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
If you're wondering what can lead to varicose veins, causes begin with the way your blood is able to flow. Varicose veins develop when the valves that keep blood flowing through your veins stop working properly. When these valves don't work, blood can flow backwards and pool in your veins. This causes the veins to enlarge and twist.
What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic problem. They can cause pain, swelling, cramping, and fatigue. In some cases, they can also lead to more serious problems such as blood clots or ulcers.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see a vein specialist near you so they can rule out any other potential causes and determine the best course of varicose vein treatment for you.
What Are the Risk Factors for Varicose Veins?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of varicose veins. It's unlikely that your valves have become compromised out of nowhere, which is why it's important to identify the underlying causes of your varicose veins before beginning treatment.
Some common causes and risk factors for developing varicose veins include:
- Family history: If you have a family member who has varicose veins, you're more likely to develop them yourself. This is due to genetics and can be difficult to avoid.
- Weight gain: Being overweight or obese can put additional pressure on your veins and lead to varicose veins.
- Pregnancy: The added stress on your veins during pregnancy can lead to the development of varicose veins.
- Standing or sitting for long periods of time: If your job requires you to stand or sit for long periods of time, you're at an increased risk for developing varicose veins.
- Age: As you age, your valves can weaken, making you more susceptible to developing varicose veins.
- A history of blood clots: If you have had blood clots in the past, you're at an increased risk for developing varicose veins.
There may be elements of your life that are contributing to your varicose veins, such as the amount of exercise you're getting on a regular basis or the amount of time you spend on your feet as a result of your work environment.
What Treatment Options Are Available For Me?
The first step in treating your varicose veins is to schedule a consultation with Sinai Laser Vein Center. During your consultation, our team of vein specialists will evaluate your condition and develop a treatment plan that's right for you.
At Sinai Laser Vein Center, we're passionate about staying on the forefront of technology available in our field, allowing us to offer the least invasive care possible when treating varicose veins. We offer a number of different treatment options, including:
- Sclerotherapy: This is a minimally-invasive procedure in which a solution is injected into the varicose veins, causing them to collapse and fade from view.
- Endovenous Laser Treatment: This is a minimally-invasive procedure in which a laser energy is used to heat and seal the veins.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: This is a minimally-invasive procedure in which radiofrequency energy is used to heat and seal the veins.
- Varithena: This is a minimally-invasive procedure in which a medication is injected into the veins to help improve circulation.
Contact Your NYC Vein Specialist Today
The best way to find out which varicose vein treatment is right for you is to schedule a consultation with the team of vein specialists at Sinai Laser Vein Center. We will develop a customized laser vein treatment plan based on your individual needs.
If you're ready to say goodbye to your varicose veins, show off your legs this summer, and receive care from the top vascular surgeons in NYC, schedule your first consultation with us today.
