What Causes Varicose Veins? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

You’ve been on your feet all day, running errands, working, or maybe just enjoying a day out. As you finally sit down to rest, you notice your legs feeling heavy, achy, and even a bit swollen. You glance down and see twisted, bulging veins running along your calves. Sound familiar? This scenario is all too common for many people who suffer from varicose veins. But what causes varicose veins, and more importantly, what can you do about them?

Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic issue—they are often a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention. Whether you’re starting to notice the early signs or you’ve been dealing with varicose veins for years, it’s crucial to understand what causes them, the symptoms to look out for, and the treatments available. At VIP Medical Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating varicose veins with minimally invasive procedures that offer effective relief.

Learn about our varicose vein treatments and how they can help you regain your comfort.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins develop when the veins in your legs become enlarged, dilated, and overfilled with blood. This often occurs because of chronic venous insufficiency, but several factors can contribute to the condition. Understanding these causes is the first step toward effective varicose vein treatment.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is the primary cause of varicose veins. Your veins have one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves become weak or damaged, blood can pool in the veins, causing them to enlarge and become varicose. This condition is usually progressive, meaning it can worsen over time without proper intervention.

Prolonged Standing or Sitting

Your lifestyle can significantly impact the health of your veins. Prolonged periods of standing or sitting, especially if done daily over many years, can increase the pressure in your veins. This pressure can weaken the vein walls and valves, leading to varicose veins. If your job requires you to be on your feet or sit for long periods, you are at higher risk of developing this condition.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the amount of blood in a woman’s body increases to support the growing fetus. This increase in blood volume can lead to enlarged veins. Additionally, the weight of the uterus can put pressure on the veins in the lower body, contributing to the development of varicose veins. Hormonal changes during pregnancy also play a role by relaxing the vein walls.

Age

As you age, your veins lose elasticity, and the valves in your veins may become weaker. This is why varicose veins are more common in older adults. The wear and tear on your veins over the years can lead to valve failure, allowing blood to flow backward and cause the veins to swell.

Genetics

If your parents or close relatives have varicose veins, you are more likely to develop them as well. Genetic factors can influence the structure of your vein walls and valves, making you more susceptible to venous insufficiency and varicose veins.

Obesity

Carrying extra weight puts additional pressure on your veins, particularly in the lower body. This increased pressure can damage the valves in your veins, leading to the development of varicose veins. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for reducing your risk.

Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins and Venous Insufficiency

Varicose veins are often more than just a cosmetic concern. They can lead to uncomfortable symptoms that impact your quality of life. Here are some of the common symptoms associated with varicose veins and venous insufficiency:

• Aching or heavy feeling in the legs, especially after prolonged standing or sitting
• Swelling in the lower legs and ankles
• Itching around the veins
• Throbbing, cramping, or burning sensations in the legs
• Dark purple or blue veins visible just under the skin
• Twisted and bulging veins, often resembling cords on the legs
• Skin discoloration or ulcers near the ankle (in severe cases)

How Are Varicose Veins Treated?

If you’re dealing with the discomfort and unsightly appearance of varicose veins, there’s good news—minimally invasive treatments can address the problem. At VIP Medical Group, we offer several state-of-the-art procedures to eliminate varicose veins with minimal downtime.

Endovenous Laser Ablation

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is a popular treatment for varicose veins. During this procedure, a laser fiber is inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The laser energy heats and seals the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually be absorbed by the body. EVLA is performed under local anesthesia and requires little to no downtime.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is another minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. Similar to EVLA, RFA uses thermal energy to heat and close off the affected vein. A small catheter is inserted into the vein, and radiofrequency energy is delivered, causing the vein to collapse. This procedure is also performed under local anesthesia and offers a quick recovery.

VenaSeal

VenaSeal is a unique treatment that uses a medical adhesive to close off varicose veins. Unlike EVLA and RFA, which use heat, VenaSeal involves injecting a specialized adhesive into the vein, which seals it shut. The body then absorbs the vein over time. VenaSeal is particularly appealing because it requires no tumescent anesthesia and causes minimal discomfort.

ClariVein

ClariVein is a minimally invasive treatment that combines mechanical and chemical methods to treat varicose veins. A rotating catheter is used to create mechanical damage inside the vein while simultaneously delivering a sclerosing agent. This dual-action approach effectively closes off the vein, which is then absorbed by the body.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Ambulatory phlebectomy involves removing varicose veins through tiny incisions in the skin. It is typically used for large, bulging veins close to the surface of the skin. The incisions are so small that stitches are not usually required, and the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia. Most patients can often return to normal activities immediately.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment used to eliminate smaller varicose veins and spider veins. During this procedure, a sclerosing solution is injected directly into the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. Sclerotherapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments for more comprehensive results.

Contact Us for Varicose Vein Treatments

If you’re struggling with varicose veins, don’t wait until they worsen to seek treatment. At VIP Medical Group, our experienced vein doctors are here to help you understand your condition and choose the best treatment option. We have state-of-the-art vein clinics conveniently located in New York, New Jersey, Long Island, Maryland, and California. Visit your nearest vein clinic to learn more about our treatments and take the first step toward healthier legs.