VARICOSE VEINS

Veins are a one-way system that carry oxygen-depleted blood back to the heart and lungs so that the blood can be re-oxygenated.  Veins have one-way valves to keep blood moving in the direction of the heart.  If these valves malfunction, venous blood fails to circulate properly, thus pooling, and the veins can subsequently become swollen and painful.   Veins affected by abnormal valves are called varicose veins and generally develop in the thighs and calves, but can extend to the ankles and feet.

Symptoms associated with varicose veins are determined by their proximity to the skin and muscles of the legs.  If varicose veins are close to the skin, they can cause symptoms such as itching, burning, and focal tenderness.  If varicose veins are close to the muscles, they can cause muscular symptoms of aching, cramping, and throbbing.  Patients suffering from varicose veins may also experience restless legs, heaviness, and leg fatigue.

Varicose veins can also be of cosmetic concern to individuals and lead to embarrassment and problems with self-esteem.

Phlebologists are physicians that specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins.  Current methods to treat varicose veins include Endovenous Laser Ablation, Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation, Sclerotherapy, and Microphlebectomy.

SPIDER VEINS

Spider veins are much smaller than varicose veins and can appear on the skin's surface.  They are common on the thighs, ankles and face.  It's not uncommon for these red, blue or purple veins to cause symptom aching, itching, burning, and heaviness.

Sometimes spider veins are a clue of underlying varicose veins, and therefore, if spider veins are accompanied with symptoms of varicose veins, then the individual should also be evaluated for varicose veins as well.

Current methods to treat spider veins include Sclerotherapy and laser therapy.

FACIAL VEINS

The most common cause of prominent facial veins is Rosacea.  Individuals who suffer from Rosacea may have small, red, spider veins on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin.  These veins may become so prominent that they may cause burning, itching, and even pain. 

Having prominent facial veins may also run in the family.  People of norther European ancestry is a good example.

Facial Spider Veins can be treated Intense Pulsed Light Therapy and laser therapy.  In some instances, Sclerotherapy can also be utilized.

HAND VEINS

Prominent hand veins are mainly a cosmetic concern.  As we age, we tend to loose some collagen and elasticity in the skin of our hands.  This can result in the underlying veins to appear prominent and bulging.  Some individuals feel that this causes their hands to appear aged

Hand veins can be treated using sclerotherapy.