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Q:
What are Varicose Veins
Answered by
Garth Rosenberg M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
Veins channel blood back to the heart with the help of one-way valves, which prevent blood from flowing backwards. When these valves function improperly, blood begins to back up, causing the vessels to enlarge. These enlarged veins are called either spider or varicose veins. Spider veins refer to enlarged veins that are close to the surface of the skin and appear as small red, blue or purple veins. Varicose veins are larger swollen veins and are located much deeper under the skin. Symptoms of varicose include: swelling, fatigue, heaviness, aching, burning, itching, throbbing, cramping and restlessness of the leg.
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Q:
How prevalent is vein disease?
Answered by
Garth Rosenberg M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
More than 80 million Americans suffer from vein disorders. Approximately 25% of women and 10% of men in America have problems related to their veins.
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Q:
What are the complications of untreated varicose veins?
Answered by
Steven Elias M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
Varicose veins are often left untreated and mistaken as just being a cosmetic problem. It is important to have varicose veins evaluated by a physician because they can cause underlying health complications such as phlebitis, pigmentation, blood clots and ulceration of the lower leg. Varicose veins can also be associated with symptoms such as aching, fatigue, heaviness, restlessness and cramping.
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Q:
What causes varicose veins?
Answered by
Garth Rosenberg M.D.
on January 01, 1900
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A:
Heredity is the largest contributing factor leading to spider and varicose veins. Hormonal factors such as pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and the use of birth control pills or estrogen can also contribute to the development of varicose veins. Other predisposing factors include, but are not limited to, advancing age, weight, and prolonged standing.
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Q:
How can my body compensate for the veins that are removed?
Answered by
Garth Rosenberg M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
When a diseased vein is removed the blood that would have flowed through that vein is redirected through properly functioning veins. This is why treating vein disease allows blood to flow more efficiently through the circulatory system. When properly treated, the root of the problem is dealt with and the resulting symptoms are alleviated.
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Q:
What is the connection between varicose veins and pregnancy?
Answered by
Garth Rosenberg M.D.
on February 20, 2002
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A:
During pregnancy factors such as changing hormone levels and weight gain can aggravate either the tendency or already existing varicose veins.
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