What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are large, twisted veins. You can see them and feel them on the surface of the skin. They can cause heaviness and swelling in the legs. You will need to see a vein doctor in order to prevent this condition from getting worse. In rare cases, varicose veins can cause serious complications such as blood clots. Two to three percent of people with varicose veins will develop blood clots.
What are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small veins that can be red or blue in color. In most cases, spider veins do not cause any pain. Treatment is not necessary to prevent complications. However, many people elect to get spider veins treated because of cosmetic concerns.
What can Cause Spider Veins and Varicose Veins?
Even though spider veins and varicose veins are different conditions, they are caused by the same things. If you are obese, then you are more likely to develop varicose veins and spider veins. Heredity also plays a role. If you have a relative with varicose veins or spider veins, then you will be more likely to develop them yourself.
Women are more likely to develop spider veins and varicose veins because of the hormonal changes that they experience. Pregnancy, the use of birth control pills and menopause can increase the risk of varicose veins and spider veins. Girls who are going through puberty are also at risk for developing varicose veins and spider veins.
Spider veins and varicose veins are more common in people who work certain occupations. Nurses, factory workers, teachers and hair stylists are more likely to develop varicose veins and spider veins. The reason they are more likely to develop these conditions is that they spend a lot of time on their feet.
Lifestyle Changes May Help
If you suffer from varicose veins or spider veins, then your vein doctor may recommend lifestyle changes. Exercising, losing weight and eating healthy may help you reduce varicose veins and spider veins. A healthy lifestyle can also prevent them from occurring in the first place.
Diagnosing Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
A vein doctor can diagnose spider veins and varicose veins just by looking at your legs. They can also ask you about the symptoms that you are experiencing. The doctor may do other tests to rule out other health conditions. This includes an ultrasound and a venogram.
An ultrasound can check the blood flow in the veins. It can also detect leaky valves. A venogram allows the doctor to get a closer look at the veins. A dye will be injected in order for the doctor to get a better view.
About Metro Vein Centers
Metro Vein Centers has been around since 2006. There are clinics in New Jersey, New York, Texas and Michigan. The doctors specialize in treating varicose veins with minimally invasive treatments. They will examine the patient and determine which treatment is best.
The practice built on trust, expertise and experience. They want people to have access to the most effective and safest treatments possible.
