Varicose Veins Symptoms and How and When to Treat Them

Not only do varicose veins have a negative impact on your self-esteem, but they can also be extremely painful. And unfortunately, sometimes hiding these veins just isn’t enough. If left untreated, they can lead to other serious health concerns that might come with painful – and dangerous – side effects.

So, how do you know when to worry about varicose veins? Consider these important symptoms to look out for, and how you can eliminate them with our varicose vein treatments available at the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh™.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are abnormally swollen, enlarged veins that are commonly found on the legs. They’re caused by defective and insufficient valves within the veins, and are just one symptom of a more serious medical concern called venous insufficiency.

When the blood flow from the lower extremities toward the heart is compromised, complications can occur. Blood may have a difficult time moving up the lower extremity toward the heart as it works against gravity. Over time, this can force the veins in the lower extremities to become incompetent, making this process harder and inadequate.

This congestion then forms twisted, bulging veins that protrude from the skin, known as varicose veins. They’re usually a blue-green color and can become more painful over time.

Varicose Veins Symptoms: What to Look For

Some patients are quick to treat varicose veins because of their appearance, but these diseased veins can also affect your quality of life by causing a variety of symptoms.

Varicose veins located near the surface of the skin are easily distinguishable. However, veins further from the skin’s surface may not possess visible symptoms. Even if you aren’t experiencing any symptoms, this doesn’t mean your varicose veins won’t cause problems later. Varicose veins should be treated promptly to avoid complications in the future. Some signs and varicose vein symptoms to look out for are:

  • Leg aches
  • Heaviness in the legs
  • Reduced pain when legs are elevated
  • Burning sensation in the legs
  • Restless legs
  • Swelling of surface veins
  • Discoloration
  • Leg ulcers

How Can I Treat My Varicose Veins?

Treating your varicose veins as soon as possible may not only improve your quality of life, but can also prevent more serious issues, such as venous ulcers, from occurring.

Our effective treatments at the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh can successfully treat lower extremity venous disease, including varicose veins. We offer endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), sclerotherapy, and microphlebectomy, so you’re sure to find one that can deliver you with relief and incredible results.

  • Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
    This minimally-invasive treatment uses a laser to heat and seal insufficient veins. During EVLA, a catheter is used to insert a thin laser fiber into the unhealthy vein. The laser is then slowly removed through the vein as it emits thermal energy to the surrounding vein walls. This treatment requires minimal downtime for recovery.
  • Sclerotherapy
    This treatment is used to treat unsightly spider veins. Sclerotherapy is when a sclerosant, or a detergent, is injected into the vein to irritate it and cause inflammation. This inflammation seals the vein, and the body naturally absorbs it over time. Sclerotherapy is a great option for smaller, insufficient veins and comes with minimal downtime for recovery.
  • Microphlebectomy
    Microphlebectomy is a minimally invasive technique performed under local anesthesia. Tiny incisions are made in the leg through which the diseased vessel is removed. When used in conjunction with EVLA, this treatment is incredibly effective because the varicose vein is completely removed. This minimally-invasive procedure is quick and doesn’t require any stitches or sutures.

Improve Your Quality of Life and Treat Your Varicose Veins Today!

At the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh, we understand just how painful and uncomfortable varicose veins can be. We offer a selection of minimally invasive varicose vein treatment options that can be used to remove the painful effects of these veins – and the unsightly veins themselves. Treat your varicose vein pain with endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), sclerotherapy, or microphlebectomy.

At your in-person evaluation, an experienced provider will perform an ultrasound to ensure your lower extremity veins are functioning as they should. If insufficient veins are detected, we’ll create a unique treatment approach that works for you. You can expect to start with prescription-grade compression stockings before advancing to surgical treatments. A combination of multiple treatments may be necessary for best results.

To get started, book an appointment by giving us a call at (724) 934-8346 or contact us using the form on our website. We’d be happy to help!