Varicose veins are one of the most common vascular conditions in the United States, affecting roughly 23 percent of adults. Those bulging, twisted veins visible beneath the skin are more than a cosmetic concern. Left untreated, varicose veins can lead to chronic pain, skin changes, blood clots, and venous ulcers. For residents of Forest Hills, Queens and Long Island, understanding what causes varicose veins and knowing the treatment options available locally can make the difference between years of discomfort and lasting relief.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Veins carry blood back to the heart, working against gravity with the help of one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves weaken or fail, blood pools in the veins, causing them to stretch, swell, and become visible under the skin. This condition is known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
Several factors increase the risk of developing varicose veins:
- Age: Vein valves naturally weaken over time. The risk increases significantly after age 50.
- Family history: Genetics play a strong role. If your parents had varicose veins, your risk is elevated.
- Prolonged standing or sitting: Jobs that require long hours on your feet or at a desk impair blood flow in the legs.
- Pregnancy: Increased blood volume and hormonal changes during pregnancy put extra pressure on leg veins.
- Obesity: Excess weight adds pressure to the venous system, accelerating valve deterioration.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop varicose veins due to hormonal influences, including birth control and menopause.
When Varicose Veins Require Medical Attention
Not all varicose veins need treatment. Small, painless varicose veins may only be a cosmetic issue. However, you should see a vascular specialist if you experience aching, heaviness, or throbbing in your legs that worsens after prolonged standing, swelling in the ankles or lower legs, skin discoloration or hardening around the ankles, itching or burning over the veins, or a sore on the leg that will not heal.
These symptoms suggest that the underlying venous insufficiency is progressing and could lead to complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), superficial thrombophlebitis, or venous stasis ulcers. Dr. Amir Salem, our Interventional Radiologist and Vascular Surgeon at M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group P.C., specializes in diagnosing and treating the full spectrum of venous disease.
Modern Treatment Options
Treatment for varicose veins has advanced dramatically. The days of painful vein stripping surgery with weeks of recovery are largely behind us. Today, most varicose vein treatments are minimally invasive, performed in the office under local anesthesia, and allow you to return to normal activities within a day or two.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA): A thin laser fiber is inserted into the affected vein through a tiny incision. Laser energy heats and seals the vein shut, rerouting blood flow to healthier veins. The procedure takes about 45 minutes and has a success rate above 95 percent.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Similar to EVLA, this technique uses radiofrequency energy to close the vein. It is known for causing less post-procedure discomfort than laser.
Sclerotherapy: A solution is injected directly into smaller varicose veins and spider veins, causing them to collapse and fade. This is ideal for veins that are too small for ablation.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy: For larger, bulging surface veins, tiny punctures are made to remove the vein segments. The incisions are so small that sutures are rarely needed.
Prevention and Lifestyle Tips
While you cannot change your genetics, several lifestyle measures can slow the progression of varicose veins and relieve symptoms. Regular exercise, especially walking and calf raises, helps pump blood back to the heart. Elevating your legs above heart level for 15 minutes several times a day reduces pooling. Compression stockings provide external support to weakened vein walls. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the venous system. If your job requires prolonged sitting or standing, take breaks every 30 minutes to move around.
Expert Vein Care in Queens and Long Island
At M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group P.C., Dr. Salem provides comprehensive vein evaluations using duplex ultrasound to map the venous anatomy and identify the source of the problem before recommending treatment. Our offices in Forest Hills, Queens and Great Neck, Long Island offer convenient access to advanced vein care without leaving your community.
If varicose veins are affecting your comfort or confidence, schedule a vein consultation today. Call (718) 897-2228 or visit https://www.msorthovasc.com to book your appointment.