There are a number of vein conditions that affect the legs. Some vein conditions simply cause cosmetic concerns while others can be an indication of a more serious vascular disorder.
Varicose to Perfect is a comprehensive vein treatment center in Springboro, Ohio, and treats vein patients in the Cincinnati-Dayton area. Our team is led by board-certified physician Dr. Sukir Sinnathamby, an interventional vascular specialist.
If you have leg pain, restless legs, varicose veins, or spider veins, contact us to schedule a consultation. We will begin with a comprehensive evaluation and screening. Once your condition has been diagnosed, Dr. Sinnathamby will recommend the treatment options that are best for you.
Spider Veins
Spider veins are considered a mild form of venous insufficiency and though they are usually not a serious medical concern, most patients choose to undergo spider vein treatment to remove these unsightly cosmetic blemishes. Our spider vein treatments are minimally invasive and highly effective. Most spider vein treatments are pain-free and patients can expect to be back to their normal routine on the same day as their treatment. Two of the most common treatments for spider vein removal are:
- Vein Gough: A state-of-the-art, non-invasive technology that uses high-frequency bursts of energy to coagulate the blood and collapse the vessel wall while leaving the outer layers of the skin unaffected.
- Sclerotherapy: A treatment that involves a direct injection that causes spider veins to collapse and fade from view.
Varicose Veins
Varicose vein conditions can range from minor cosmetic concerns to more serious circulatory problems. Most varicose vein treatments are covered by insurance and our staff will help you with the necessary billing and documentation to get pre-approval for your treatment.
We offer a number of minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins at our Springboro treatment center including Vein Gough, Laser Treatments, Ambulatory Hook Phlebectomy, and Sclerotherapy. Varicose veins are caused by faulty valves which allow blood to pool, causing veins to swell and then bulge just below the surface of the skin. Varicose veins can cause a number of painful symptoms including:
- Leg pain
- Fatigue
- Heaviness
- Swelling
- Cramping
- Tingling, itching, or burning sensation
- Changes in skin color (darkening)
- Restlessness
Leg Ulcers
Venous leg ulcers are the most common type of skin ulcer and typically appear just above the ankle – resulting from poor circulation and increased blood pressure in lower leg veins. While both genders are at risk for developing these abnormal vein conditions at some point in their lives, leg ulcers are most frequently seen in older women. Warning signs and symptoms of leg ulcers include:
- Swelling
- Dry red skin
- Burning or itching sensations
- Raw/weeping wounds
In many cases, leg ulcers develop from poorly cared for or untreated varicose veins. However, they can also develop as a result of blood clots, multiple pregnancies, obesity, or prolonged periods of standing. There are a number of viable treatment options available, including compression bandages that squeeze the leg to help reduce swelling and increase blood flow.
Leg Vein Conditions Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I suddenly have so many spider veins?
The sudden appearance of spider veins can be due to hormonal changes, prolonged standing, and a family history of the condition. Injuries, obesity, pregnancy, and too much sun exposure can cause them to appear more quickly in certain areas. If you notice a sudden increase in spider veins, contact your doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Do spider veins mean diabetes?
No, spider veins are not a direct indicator of diabetes. However, in some cases, they can potentially be related. High blood glucose levels associated with diabetes can damage blood vessels. This can lead to vascular abnormalities. However, many non-diabetic patients can develop spider veins due to genetics, hormone changes, or age. So, while diabetes could be a risk factor for vascular disease in some individuals, most spider veins are not directly related to it. Always consult a medical doctor for evaluation and proper diagnosis.
Do varicose veins ever go away?
Without treatment, varicose veins typically do not disappear on their own. In fact, they often gradually get worse over time. Varicosities rarely regress on their own. However, early treatment can effectively close off problem veins before they expand. Medications, compression stockings, and lifestyle changes can help you manage symptoms of visible varicose veins. Overall, the condition is unlikely to go away without a medical intervention.
What happens if you don’t remove varicose veins?
When you do not have a specialist remove your varicose veins, they could cause bleeding, blood clots, and leg ulcers. Moreover, over time, they might lead to pain and swelling in the legs. In more severe cases, varicose veins can lead to skin changes. There’s also a risk of developing non-healing sores and ulcers.
What happens if a venous ulcer is left untreated?
If you do not seek treatment for venous leg ulcers, it will get worse. The ulcer may grow larger and deeper. Infection risk is also a major concern. It can spread to surrounding skin and even into your bloodstream. Moreover, the ulcer may continue to expand deeper into the skin. This will increase pain.
Leaving venous ulcers untreated can also lead to extreme pain and limb amputation. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent progression.
What is the average healing time for a venous leg ulcer?
Most venous leg ulcers typically take 3 to 4 months to heal. However, it’s possible some ulcers may take longer to heal. A small number of ulcers never heal. The healing time for venous leg ulcers can vary depending on factors such as the size of the ulcer. The underlying cause and the effectiveness of the treatment are factors as well.