One of the things that I’ve noticed in recent years is that patients in their 20s and 30s come in a little mystified as to why they have varicose veins. They associate venous disease with “grandma and grandpa” and commonly think “I’m too young” or “I’m in good shape” as reasons why they shouldn’t be impacted.
What they don’t know is that genetics play a large role in the appearance and onset of varicose vein symptoms. While genetics aren’t the only factor it is a significant one. Other contributing factors can be: pregnancy (extremely common in my practice), excessive lifting , standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time.
While some venous disease – such as small surface spider veins – do not always pose an immediate health risk, you should both watch the area and track symptoms that you observe. If symptoms become amplified or you start to notice discoloration, rashes, itchy skin patches, etc. you need to make an appointment with a doctor specializing in venous disease to both get treatment and rule out more serious conditions such as deep-vein thrombosis. If you start to notice dull or acute pain, swelling, leg cramps, restlessness, fatigue, or a heavy feeling in your legs you should make an appointment immediately.
When considering treatment you should know some facts. The first is that some venous disease is purely cosmetic. It can potentially progress but a cosmetic issue is optional for you to deal with. However, you should know that varicose veins will not go away on their own. While you can take steps to prevent minor symptoms from worsening those treatments won’t alleviate the symptoms or disease. Common ways include rest, leg elevation, stretching, walking, and compression clothing (most often stockings).
If you do choose treatment you should know that for the majority of patients treatments have evolved and we are well past the need for surgery. With advancements in laser technology, sclerotherapy, foam sclerotherapy, etc. the vast majority of my patients are treated in 30-60 minutes outpatient and pain-free procedures. They result in less trauma, less bruising, less risk of damage to surrounding tissues, and faster recovery time.
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