Varicose Veins

Varicose veins develop when valves inside your veins that direct blood flow weaken and allow blood to pool in the veins. This causes the veins to bulge, leading to discomfort. Their appearance can be frustrating and upsetting.

Although they can form anywhere in the body, varicose veins tend to develop in your legs. They can increase your risk of serious complications like blood clots and open sores.

A buildup of blood pressure in your veins can lead to varicose veins. The condition is more common in people who are older, pregnant, or sit or stand for extended periods of time. Obesity and a family history of varicose veins can also increase your chances of developing them.

The symptoms of varicose veins include:

• Aching legs
• Bluish or bulging appearance
• Changes in the color of your skin near the veins
• Cramping in your legs, especially at night
• Heaviness in your legs or feet
• Itching
• Swelling in your legs

More serious symptoms of a possible complication of varicose veins include:

• Bleeding from an affected vein (this is rare but serious)
• Open wounds that won’t heal, or heal very slowly 
• Severe swelling in your legs
• Skin around your veins that appears red and feels warm to the touch

If you experience any of these more serious symptoms, get medical attention.

Although we can diagnose varicose veins with a visual examination, our specialists may recommend one or more tests to determine if treatment is right for you. These tests include:

Doppler Ultrasound

A Doppler ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging test. It uses sound waves to show blood flow in your veins. This can help us see if you have a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis).

Plethysmography

Plethysmography uses blood pressure cuffs to detect differences in the blood pressure or pulse in your affected veins. This helps us identify a blockage or narrowing of your blood vessels.

Venogram

A venogram uses X‑ray imaging with a contrast dye to look for blood clots in your veins. You will lie on an X-ray table. A specialist will numb your skin before inserting an IV into the foot of your affected leg. We will inject contrast dye through the IV into your leg. We will take X-ray images of your leg. The contrast dye will highlight any blockages due to blood clots or other conditions.

We will review the results of your test(s) to determine whether treatment for your varicose veins is necessary.

The vein specialists at Cedars‑Sinai offer a range of advanced treatment options for varicose veins, including minimally invasive procedures. Our treatments help reduce your symptoms and improve your circulation as well as the appearance of your veins.

Our treatment options include:

Endovenous Laser Therapy

Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. We use local anesthesia to numb the affected area. Your specialist will make a very small incision in your vein and insert a laser fiber. The heat from the laser will collapse and seal off your vein.

Microphlebectomy

In this minimally invasive procedure, your specialist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. They will use a small scalpel to make tiny slits (incisions) to remove a varicose vein. We may recommend this procedure for varicose veins located just under your skin.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a nonsurgical treatment for varicose veins. Your specialist will use a very thin needle to inject salt water or a chemical solution into the affected area. The injection causes the vein to harden and disappear.

VenaSeal

VenaSeal uses a medical adhesive (glue) to seal off your varicose vein. Your specialist uses ultrasound imaging to guide a thin tube (catheter) into your vein. They inject the adhesive through the catheter.

After your treatment for varicose veins, follow the instructions your specialist gives you for self‑care at home. You will probably need to wear compression stockings for a week or longer. Protect your skin from the sun with long clothing while you heal.

Depending on your treatment, we may recommend a follow‑up visit with a physical examination and imaging tests.

You can reduce or prevent the symptoms of varicose veins with some healthy lifestyle habits that improve your circulation. These include:

• Avoiding taking hot baths or soaking in a hot tub
  
• Elevating your legs when you sit to reduce pressure
• Exercising regularly to improve your circulation
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Take a break from sitting or standing for long periods of time (walking helps)
• Wearing compression stockings to improve circulation and reduce swelling

Some people with varicose veins develop venous ulcers. If this happens, seek medical treatment. You may need to care for ulcers at home by:

• Avoiding chemicals that cause skin sensitivity
• Applying topical antibiotics as prescribed
• Keeping the wound clean and dressed
• Taking oral antibiotics as prescribed