When to worry about varicose veins: signs you shouldn’t ignore
If you’re here, you’re probably worried about having varicose veins. You may have noticed that your veins become more prominent. Maybe there’s pain or discomfort in your legs, especially in the evening. Or they just don’t look like they used to, and you’re wondering if you should be worried.
Well, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll talk about what varicose veins are, how to recognize them, and what modern treatments are available.
Table of contents
- What are varicose veins, and what do they look like?
- What are the risk factors?
- When should you worry about varicose veins?
- What are the treatments available?
- Which varicose vein treatment is right for me?
- Conclusion
What are varicose veins, and what do they look like?
Varicose veins are dilated, deformed veins that are visible under the skin, often on the legs. They are sometimes accompanied by heaviness, burning, swelling, or cramping.
Varicose veins vs spider veins
Varicose veins are often confused with so-called spider veins. The latter are finer, reddish or bluish, and usually cause no pain or other symptoms.
Spider veins are generally a cosmetic concern only. We can’t say the same about varicose veins. Why? Because they stem from a mechanical problem. The valves in the veins, which are meant to prevent blood from flowing backward, no longer function properly. As a result, blood stagnates, the veins dilate, and pressure on the vein walls increases.
What are the risk factors?
In most cases, genetics play an important role. If one of your parents has or had varicose veins, your chances of developing the condition increase significantly. What you inherit isn’t the varicose veins themselves, but rather a predisposition to weakened vein walls or malfunctioning venous valves. If you know you have a family history of varicose veins, it’s a good idea to:
- Stay alert to any changes in the appearance of your legs (such as visible, swollen, or painful veins);
- Avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting;
- Maintain a healthy body weight;
- Exercise regularly—especially activities that help improve circulation.
When should you worry about varicose veins?
Even if your varicose veins are in the early stages or don’t cause discomfort, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. The sooner you identify the problem, the simpler and more effective the treatment will be. This doesn’t mean you should be alarmed – staying calm is always important, in all circumstances. However, taking early action can prevent complications.
Ignoring varicose veins might have a severe impact on the quality of life for the patients and their families. In some situations, when the condition is complicated with venous ulcers, pain can be severe, with reduced ability to walk and work, and an unpleasant odor. This can impact both the sufferer’s and their families’ lives. Also, if clots form in the veins (thrombophlebitis), the risk of strokes and pulmonary embolisms (clots in the lungs) is very high and can be fatal.
Signs you should not ignore:
- an increase in pain or swelling
- skin discoloration
- ulceration.
What are the treatments available?
The good news? Medicine has come a long way. Today, treatments for varicose veins are more effective, faster, and less painful than ever before. You have either one non-invasive option along minimally invasive treatments. Here’s what they include:
SONOVEIN – High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
The technology is the newest in the varicose vein treatment field and it is a NON-INVASIVE treatment. There are no incisions and no needles in the vein. Using high-intensity ultrasound, energy is precisely directed at a point on the vein wall. This destroys the venous tissue and causes the vein to close, after which it is absorbed by the body. There is no need for hospitalization, the procedure is painless, and recovery is quick. Dr. Omar uses this advanced technology for varicose vein treatment.
Endovenous Laser Ablation of the veins (EVLA)
EVLA is a minimally invasive treatment method for varicose veins. During the procedure, a specialist inserts a small catheter (a thin tube) into an affected vein through a small incision in the skin. This catheter is equipped with a fiber optic at the end that emits a laser beam. The laser produces intense heat that destroys the wall of the affected vein. As this happens, the vein “seals” and blood is diverted through the surrounding healthy veins. After treatment, the body will gradually absorb the damaged vein, and it will disappear over time.
Endovenous Microwave Ablation of the veins (EMWA)
This method uses microwaves to treat affected veins. It is done under local anesthesia and involves inserting a thin device into the vein. This device emits an electromagnetic field (microwaves), which affects the vein wall and destroys it. Microwaves generate heat, which causes the vein wall to contract and close. EMWA is a minimally invasive, safe, and effective method.
Which varicose vein treatment is right for me?
It’s important to remember that every patient is different and treatment should be tailored to the stage of varicose veins and each person’s personal needs. An experienced doctor will assess the condition of your veins, analyze your medical history, and recommend the treatment that best suits you.
Below you can see a “before and after” example of patients treated by Dr. Omar Abu-Bakr, one of the pioneers in modern varicose vein treatments.
Conclusion
Do not delay your consultation! Varicose veins treated early are much less likely to develop into serious complications. Modern, minimally invasive solutions will help you recover quickly and continue your life without discomfort. Book a consultation today!
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