Varicose Veins

Varicose veins can cause twisting, gnarled, bulging veins on your legs and feet. If you’re concerned about unsightly veins or they’re causing you discomfort, Molly McBride, Barbara Sztukowski, NP, Sarah Weld, NP, and the team at Elite Gynecology in New York City, New York, can help. They provide assessments and treatments for varicose veins and spider veins. To request an evaluation and treatment consultation, call Elite Gynecology or book an appointment online today.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are twisted and enlarged veins, most commonly appearing on the feet and legs, and originate from weak valves and vein walls. Sometimes the walls of the veins lose their elasticity and become stretched, causing the valves to weaken. The cause of the condition is unknown.

For many people, varicose veins are more of a cosmetic concern. For others, the condition is accompanied by discomfort and aching pain, often signaling an underlying circulatory issue.

What do varicose veins look like?

Varicose veins are usually characterized by twisted, swollen, rope like bulging veins that are blue or purple in color and just under your skin’s service. They can appear just below the surface of the skin on your ankles, feet, and legs. Small blue or red lines (spider veins) may appear nearby.

Varicose veins may or may not be accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

• Itching
• Itchy and dry skin over the affected vein
• Heavy legs (muscles feeling tired or sluggish after physical activity)
• Worsened pain after standing or sitting for long periods
• Burning, throbbing, or swelling in legs, feet, or ankles
• Muscle cramps in the legs (especially at night)

If left untreated, varicose veins can cause discoloration, often brown. Severe varicose veins may cause venous ulcers (sores) on your skin.

How are varicose veins diagnosed?

Varicose veins are close to your skin's surface and easy to see. Your provider may notice the condition during a physical examination, feeling your veins and examining them as you sit and stand.

Your Elite Gynecology provider may request an ultrasound to check for complications and to see detailed images of your veins. This test uses sound waves and produces pictures of tissues inside your body. Ultrasounds can reveal blood clots and show how your valves are working.

What is the treatment for varicose veins?

Although there is no cure for varicose veins, treatment can relieve discomfort and reduce the veins' appearance.

Your Elite Gynecology provider may recommend any combination of the following:

• Compression stockings
• Exercise
• Elevation to decrease pressure in your veins and increase blood flow
• Injection therapy (sclerotherapy)
• Laser therapy (ablation)
• Procedures to close or remove the veins

If you’re concerned about how varicose veins look or if they’re uncomfortable, treatment can help. Call Elite Gynecology to schedule your consultation or request an appointment online now.