Roughly half of all adults in the U.S. over the age of 50 are affected by large, bulging veins on the surface of the legs. While some people are bothered by the way they look, varicose veins can also cause pain and discomfort. When symptoms interfere with your quality of life or become a cosmetic concern, a variety of treatments can be used to eliminate these veins.

At the Vein Care Center, we treat patients from Lima, Celina, and throughout northwest Ohio who are dealing with the discomfort and appearance of varicose veins. Dr. Manu B. Aggarwal, MHSA, MD, is a board-certified, family physician, additionally certified in venous and lymphatic medicine, offering a range of minimally invasive treatments. If you’re living with symptoms that stem from varicose veins, we can help you explore options to reduce both the discomfort and the visibility of these veins.

What Are Varicose Veins? 

Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged, twisted, and more visible under the skin. They most commonly develop in the legs and ankles, where the veins are working against gravity to move blood back toward the heart. When a vein doesn’t function the way it should, blood can begin to collect and put pressure on the vein walls,  causing them to stretch and swell.

Varicose veins tend to rise closer to the skin’s surface over time, making them easier to see and feel. Some people may notice a rope-like texture or bulging appearance, while others simply see prominent, discolored lines. Although varicose veins are a type of vein disease, not everyone who has them experiences symptoms right away.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose vein causes are linked to valves inside the veins that no longer function as they should. These valves normally keep blood flowing in one direction, back up toward your heart, but when they become weak or damaged, blood can begin to pool in the vein instead. This buildup increases pressure, which stretches the vein walls and leads to the twisted, enlarged appearance seen on the surface of the skin. The longer this pressure continues, the more likely it is for the vein to become visibly distended.

What Are the Risk Factors for Varicose Veins? 

Approximately 30 million people in the U.S. suffer from varicose veins, with the majority of people over 50 years old. In addition to the aging process, other factors that contribute to the formation of varicose veins include the following:

  • Obesity
  • Lack of exercise
  • Standing for long durations
  • Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause
  • Taking birth control pills or medications that contain estrogen or progesterone

What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

While there may be no symptoms beyond aesthetics, varicose veins can cause a sense of heaviness or aching in the legs, especially after standing or sitting for long periods. You might also notice throbbing, burning, cramping, or itching near the affected areas. Swelling in the lower legs and ankles is common, particularly at the end of the day. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may become more noticeable with physical activity, warm temperatures, or prolonged inactivity.

Varicose veins can also result in some serious health issues, including the following conditions:

  • Varicose veins can cause sores or ulcers to form on the legs or ankles, which can be difficult to heal over time.
  • The veins can also result in the development of superficial thrombophlebitis. The blood clot, which forms within a vein just beneath the skin’s surface, is denoted by such symptoms as vein tenderness, swelling, pain, or redness at the site.
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can also present itself. In this condition, clots form in a vein farther below the skin’s surface and are marked by symptoms similar to those of superficial thrombophlebitis. Any pain or tightness is normally located in the area of the calf. This condition, which can result in a pulmonary embolism, can be fatal if it is not treated.

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins

When varicose veins start to cause discomfort or affect your daily life, several treatment options are available to help relieve symptoms and reduce their appearance. At the Vein Care Center, we offer both minimally invasive procedures and conservative approaches depending on your needs, goals, and overall vein health. Many of these treatments can be performed right in our office with little to no downtime.

01 /
Endovenous Laser Treatment

The endovenous laser technique uses laser energy delivered through a thin fiber inside the vein to gently collapse and seal the vein from within. Over time, the treated vein fades as your body redirects blood to healthier veins.

02 /
Sclerotherapy

During this technique, a targeted solution is injected directly into the vein, causing it to close and gradually disappear. Sclerotherapy is commonly used for smaller varicose veins and visible spider veins.

03 /
Echosclerotherapy

This is a more advanced form of sclerotherapy guided by ultrasound imaging, allowing us to treat deeper or less visible veins with greater precision.

04 /
Ambulatory Phlebectomy

This procedure involves making tiny incisions to remove surface varicose veins that are too large for sclerotherapy. Ambulatory phlebectomies are often used in combination with other treatments for optimal results.

05 /
Varithenaâ„¢

During this treatment, a foam formulation is injected into the vein, filling it and causing it to collapse. Varithena can be used for all types of varicose veins, including larger or harder-to-treat varicose veins that don’t require surgery.

06 /
Compression Stockings

Specially designed compression stockings apply pressure to your legs, helping improve blood flow and reduce swelling. They’re often recommended as a first step or to support recovery after other treatments.

07 /
Leg Exercises

Simple activities like walking or calf raises can help improve circulation and reduce the buildup of pressure in your veins. Regular movement is an important part of managing varicose veins, especially if you sit or stand for long periods.

Varicose Veins Treatment at the Vein Care Center 

If you’re experiencing discomfort or visible changes from varicose veins, we’re here to help you explore safe and effective solutions. Dr. Manu B. Aggarwal has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating vein disease. As Medical Director of our IAC-accredited Ultrasound Laboratory and a recognized educator in her field, Dr. Aggarwal brings a high level of expertise to every patient visit. To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact us online or call us at (419) 227-4472.

The information about varicose veins was reviewed by Dr. Manu B. Aggarwal. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using our contact form below.

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