Varicose Vein

Varicose veins are a bothersome condition affecting many people in the Boca Raton and Palm Beach area, usually women. Varicose veins are twisted, swollen, often painful leg veins that are filled with a higher than normal collection of blood. Normally, valves within the veins help blood move toward the heart. In varicose veins, the valves are not functioning properly and the blood stays in the vein. The blood pools and the leg vein enlarges. Some people experience varicose veins in other areas of the body, but they are most common in the legs.

The most common reasons that varicose veins develop is due to pregnancy, thrombophlebitis (vein swelling due to a blood clot) or congenitally defective valves. Standing for long periods of time or experiencing increased abdominal pressure are common triggers for the development of this condition. Symptoms of varicose veins include mild ankle swelling, enlarged, visible veins, aching, heaviness, skin ulcers near the ankle, pain in the legs, and sometimes skin discoloration around the ankle.

The most common approach in managing varicose veins is to avoid standing for long periods of time, wear support hose made of elastic and raise your legs while you are sleeping or resting. If the condition does not resolve, you may need further treatment or surgery. Good self-care of varicose veins is important, as they do tend to worsen over time.

Without careful management of the condition, inflammation or rupture of the veins can occur, or leg ulcers can form. It is important to avoid standing for long periods of time, particularly if you have a family history of varicose veins.

Varicose Veins pre-op

Varicose Veins post-op

Mild Varicose pre-op

Mild Varicose post-op