Varicose veins are extremely common and often overlooked. This condition affects over 30 million Americans, yet only about 1.9 million seek treatment. Varicose veins are bulging, dilated veins that are caused by malfunctioning venous valves. Venous valves are one way valves that prevent blood from flowing backwards. When valves malfunction, blood flows in the opposite direction, causing veins to enlarge in order to accommodate the increased volume of blood. This problem is also known as venous reflux.

Common symptoms include; aching leg pain, rash on the legs, burning or itching of the skin. Many people also experience tired legs, heaviness, and swelling. The most advanced form of venous disease includes swelling, darkening of the skin, and skin ulceration (open sores). 

The good news…..There are solutions for those suffering from varicose veins! Evaluation of venous disease is painless, quick and easy. Physicians at Advanced Heart And Vein Center will perform a consult and based on the findings may order simple noninvasive test called a venous duplex (ultrasound) as a vein mapping to diagnose the problematic vein segments. Next, our physicians will tailor a treatment plan specific to your anatomy and desired outcome. The first line of therapy includes conservative options such as leg elevation, and compression stockings. Conservative therapy may initially help ease the pain of varicose veins but will not provide definitive treatment. If conservative therapy fails, treatment of the underlying problem can be offered and is covered by most insurance companies.

There are currently several minimally-invasive office therapies available. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA or Closure Fast®) and VenaSeal® Closure, used to close the saphenous vein and eliminate reflux.

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