Varicose veins are those big, almost bloated blood vessels that often appear in the legs. They are not the most attractive thing and they can be seen through the skin layer.
Spider veins are not as large, but they can still be seen through the skin and are most often seen on the legs and face. Varicose vein removal in San Jose is an option which will be discussed later.
What is the cause of varicose veins and spider veins?
There are a number of things which lead to varicose and spider veins, other than heredity, which plays a big part, the reasons are:
* An occupation that requires hours on end of standing, such as hair stylists, nurses and teachers
* Over weight and obesity
* Taking birth control pills
* Postmenopausal replacement of hormones
* Hormone influences during pregnancy
* Blood clot history
Causes other than this have been reported; the wearing of overly tight girdles, an injury or trauma to the skin and exposure to UV rays.
Varicose vein removal in San Jose is most often a procedure done on women, the frequency of varicose and spider veins increase as one ages.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins:
People who suffer from varicose veins often speak of pain, rather like a cramp or ache in the legs. Being tired or restless is also a symptom. The pain can be alleviated by elevating the legs. When women have varicose veins the pain and discomfort can be elevated during the menstrual cycle or when pregnant. There may be a skin darkening, especially near the ankle. If the problem reaches the point of inflammation, called thrombosis, then varicose vein removal in San Jose is highly recommended.
Treatment Options:
Support hose: if the varicose veins cause pain or they cause the sufferer discomfort, the most conservative treatment is wearing proper fitting support stockings. These stockings are available in drug stores and any surgical supplier. The stockings can be knee high and full length, similar to pantyhose.
Change in lifestyle: if you are overweight, make every effort to lose weight, walking can also help with varicose and spider veins.
Sclerotherapy: This is a simple procedure which uses a salt solution which is injected directly into the varicose vein. The vein will usually disappear over a three to four week period. This procedure is inexpensive and is an outpatient treatment.
Laser treatments: This procedure is also simple. A small laser is inserted into the vein, light pulses are then delivered and the vein will collapse. This treatment is also done on an outpatient basis.
Surgery: Surgery consists of tying off the veins and stripping them. Large veins can be removed through very small incisions which do not need stitching. The procedure is usually done under local anesthetic and the patient can go home on the same day as the surgery.
