4 Types of Varicose Veins
- Posted on: Apr 30 2017
Varicose veins can take on a variety of appearances, but usually, they look swollen, twisted and discolored, coupled with pain and discomfort. There are many vein care treatments available to alleviate varicose vein symptoms and their appearance. Do you think you may have varicose veins? Here, we describe the characteristics of the different types of varicose veins.
Moderate
Varicose veins of moderate intensity are large and noticeable bulge beneath the skin Because of their bluish-purple color, moderate varicose veins are considered a cosmetic issue at first, but if left untreated, they can lead to more serious health issues. If you have moderate varicose veins, it’s important to have a vein exam to see if you may have Chronic Venous Disease, which carries several additional symptoms and more health complications. Moderate varicose veins are no longer able to allow blood flow; blood pools within the veins instead of traveling to the heart. This type of varicose vein can be treated via Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) or Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS) to restore proper circulation.
Severe
When varicose veins are left untreated, they become even more disfigured and set the stage for a variety of serious health issues. One of these is Chronic Venous Disease, which can lead to the thickening of skin and tissues, skin ulcers, skin discoloration and severe swelling. Repeated treatment sessions are necessary with severe varicose veins.
Pregnancy-Related
When you’re pregnant, you produce extra blood which can put added pressure on blood vessels and lead to varicose veins in the legs, pelvic area and on the vulva. Women who have had multiple pregnancies are more prone to Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS), which causes moderate to severe varicose veins to develop in the legs and pelvic area that are much more painful than regular varicose veins. Pregnancy-related varicose veins can be effectively treated using Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS).
Spider Veins
These types of veins look like a spider web or tree branches and are usually only a cosmetic issue. The longer you have spider veins. However, the more at risk you become for more serious complications including skin ulcers, dermatitis, and chronic aching. The good news is spider veins can be treated easily and effectively by wearing compression stockings, making changes to your lifestyle or via endovenous laser treatment.
Do you have varicose veins?
For more information about assessing and treating varicose veins, contact Vena Health & Wellness. We have offices in Sewickley, Beaver, Grove City and Cranberry, Pennsylvania. We look forward to hearing from you!
Posted in: Varicose Veins, Vein Treatments