What Are Varicose Veins?
Understanding Vein Disease
Varicose Vein Appearance:
Varicose Veins are bulging, twisted veins that form when the valves within our blood vessels fail to work. They commonly occur in the legs, but can be found in other parts of the body.
Symptoms:
In many cases, varicose veins and spider veins (a less pronounced variation of varicose veins) are strictly a cosmetic issue. They are unsightly and can cause a lot of embarrassment at the beach, the local pool, or at the gym. However, some patients will experience sharp pain, general discomfort, and even tingling sensations. Some patients have reported abnormal foot and leg pain during physical activities, such as hiking, running and working. In extreme cases, varicose veins can create ulcers, or blood clots.
Varicose Vein Symptom Quiz:
List of Services
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1. Have you or anyone in your family previously been diagnosed with varicose veins or venous reflux disease?List Item 1
- Yes
- No
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2. Do you have varicose veins which exhibit any of the following characteristics?List Item 2
- Large, bulging veins on your legs
- Swollen, red or warm to the touch
- Skin discoloration or texture changes
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3. Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms in your legs, ankles or feet?List Item 3
- Pain (an aching or cramping feeling)
- Heaviness/Tiredness
- Burning or tingling sensations
- Swelling
- Tender areas around the veins
- Sores or skin ulcers near ankle
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4. Have you previously had skin ulcers on the leg, or areas that were slow to heal?List Item 4
- Yes
- No
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5. Have you previously attempted conservative treatments without success (e.g. exercise, weight loss, elevating legs, avoiding long periods of standing/sitting, compression stockings)?
- Yes
- No
If any of these apply to you, you may need to seek treatment for vein disease
Self-Care Remedies:
There are a couple of things you can do to treat your varicose veins. Exercising regularly has been helpful for many patients. Others have had good luck with compression stockings and elevation. However, if you find that self-care measures have not been successful, you may need to consult with a laser vein specialist in Anchorage Alaska.
When To See a Vein Specialist:
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above and haven't had any luck treating your varicose veins at home, you may want to see a vein specialist. If you're outside the state of Alaska, ask your doctor if they can refer you to a reputable vein specialist in your area.
If you are in the Anchorage, Wasilla, Juneau, Fairbanks, or Kenai areas, our clinics offer consultations to help you decide if vein treatment is a good option for you. Your legs will be evaluated, and the doctor will provide information on how to proceed most effectively.
