Varicose veins occur when the valves in a vein are damaged or weakened. The ineffective valves allow the blood to reflux, or flow backward, and accumulate in the vein, causing the vein to swell or bulge.
Although some individuals with varicose veins have no other symptoms, others experience heaviness in the legs, leg discomfort and/or pain, itchiness in the legs, swollen ankles and other symptoms. In very severe cases, the varicose vein can rupture or skin ulcers can develop on the skin.
Conservative treatments, such as exercise, elevating the legs, wearing compression stockings and avoiding standing for long periods, can provide some relief from symptoms and possibly prevent veins from worsening. Large varicose veins may need to be treated more aggressively.
Concerns it can address
I don’t like wearing shorts because I’m self-conscious about my legs.
A feeling of heaviness in the legs especially after exercise or at night
Leg discomfort or pain
Swollen ankles
Itchy legs
Considerations
Covered by some insurance plans if considered medically necessary
May be combined with sclerotherapy for optimal results
