In the United States, approximately 40 million people have varicose veins. However, the unsightly blue and purple bruising that develops in many people as they age is preventable and treatable. With a few smart lifestyle changes and a customized treatment plan, anyone can be rid of varicose veins.

To understand how treatment options target swollen or ruptured veins, you must first be familiar with how varicose veins develop. Keep reading to learn more about this common condition, how to prevent it, and how vein therapy could help.

What Are Varicose Veins?

When veins become enlarged, more visible, twisted, and darkened, they are called varicose veins. Individuals with varicose veins may feel heaviness in their limbs, slight itchiness, or swelling, and bruising.

Skin discoloration surrounding varicose veins is common and typically signifies that the vein has ruptured, and blood is now pooling beneath the skin.

Nearly 25% of all adults will encounter varicose veins at some point in their lives, particularly those who are over 50 years of age. However, age is not the only determining factor behind the development of this condition.

What Causes Vein Damage?

Vein damage has several potential causes. The most common cause is trauma, especially trauma that is enacted over a long period. Pregnancy puts a tremendous amount of stress on a woman’s body and can result in broken arches in the feet and varicose veins.

Obesity and certain types of careers (positions where employees are expected to stand for several hours each day) can also cause or worsen vein damage. Essentially, excessive pressure on the veins, especially those in the legs, is the leading cause behind this condition. Still, for many people, there’s no direct cause behind the development of varicose veins.

Genetics, for example, can play a significant role in the onset of varicose veins.

What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

The symptoms of varicose veins are typically physically visible, though they may be accompanied by intangible symptoms such as pain or numbness. The most common symptoms include:

  • Dark blue or purple veins
  • Veins that bulge out from the surface of the skin or seem to twist beneath the skin
  • Achy legs
  • Throbbing in calf
  • Burning sensation in legs
  • Muscle cramps
  • Pulsating veins
  • Swelling in legs
  • Skin discoloration around damaged veins
  • Itchiness in legs
  • Increased pain after extended sitting or standing

Contrary to popular belief, varicose veins are not an indication of circulatory issues. Still, taking better care of your general health and fitness may be able to help lessen the appearance of varicose veins and help prevent them from reoccurring.

What Kinds of Treatment Options Are There for Varicose Veins?

There are quite a few different treatment options available to those with varicose veins. Some can be attempted from the comfort of home, while others do require professional care and assistance. The ideal choice for you is bound to vary and will depend on your budget and preferences.

Home Remedies

Home remedies and lifestyle changes may be a great place to start when looking to rid yourself of varicose veins. While some of these options may not be suitable for all, those who can adhere to these restrictions may find themselves feeling and looking better more quickly.

Exercise

Maintaining at least a moderate level of fitness can help prevent varicose veins from developing. Also, moderate exercise can lessen the appearance and symptoms of varicose veins over time. Daily or weekly exercise has a plethora of benefits, so deciding to make exercise a habit is a wise choice.

Proper Nutrition

Eating a diet that’s full of nutrients and minerals is crucial to any person’s general health. Reducing sugar and salt intake in favor of natural fats and flavonoids can help reduce swelling and increase blood flow. Nuts, whole-grains, and leafy greens are an excellent place to start.

Massage

A professional massage can help improve and encourage proper circulation. The result is decreased swelling and pain, and a slight decrease in the appearance of varicose veins. However, if massage is performed on a regular basis for an extended period, it becomes more effective at reducing the visibility of varicose veins.

Loose Clothing

Restrictive clothing can pinch the blood vessels and make it difficult for veins to properly function. Loose clothing promotes excellent circulation and can also help prevent fungal infections! Individuals that live in warm, humid climates can benefit tremendously from following this habit.

Professional Treatments

For those seeking fast and effective solutions to varicose veins, professional treatment and therapy may be the ideal option. There are several treatment options, and each one has specific advantages and disadvantages.

Some of the most common forms of varicose vein therapy are listed below.

Laser Treatments

Endovenous laser treatments are a non-invasive therapy option that uses heat and light to help treat varicose veins. The main purpose of this type of treatment is to close varicose veins and shrink them down.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy typically consists of an injection of a saline solution directly into varicose veins. This solution dramatically weakens the vein and causes it to collapse and clot. While this option may not be suitable for those with pre-existing heart conditions, it is one of the most common treatment options.

Ablation

Ablation requires the use of sound, frequency, and vibration to help close and eliminate varicose veins. It can be both invasive and non-invasive, depending on the precise treatment method.

Benefits of Getting Varicose Vein Therapy

The benefits of vein therapy are relatively straightforward. Rather than dealing with swollen, achy legs with a spiderweb of broken and damaged veins, you can enjoy:

  • Reduced pain and swelling in the limbs
  • Clearer, brighter, smoother skin
  • Absence of varicose vein symptoms

Unlike other types of internal conditions, it’s actually quite easy to treat and cure varicose veins. Varicose vein therapy can eradicate all symptoms associated with the condition. Most patients find relief immediately after finishing their treatment process.

Don’t Delay—Seek Treatment Today!

There’s absolutely no reason to continue living life with varicose veins. With so many treatment options available, anyone can begin the healing process and take the first step toward clearer, brighter skin and healthier veins.

The team of experts and healthcare workers at the Vein Institute of Pinellas is prepared to help. If you have any lingering questions about varicose vein therapy and treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us today!