Varicose Veins Specialist
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Amsterdam Medical Practice
Internists located in Washington Heights, New York, NY
The itch, tenderness, and discoloration associated with enlarged varicose veins can be a source of discomfort and embarrassment. Treating and removing varicose veins can restore the healthy appearance of your legs, resolve blood flow problems, and eliminate pain. The vascular surgeon at Amsterdam Medical Practice in Washington Heights in New York works closely with men and women who have varicose veins to provide personalized treatments to help foster optimal health. Call or schedule an appointment online to get discuss how Amsterdam Medical Practice can help you get the relief you need from varicose veins.
Varicose Veins Q & A
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are veins beneath the surface of the skin that became puffy and inflamed. They’re often blue or purple and can appear curved or twisted.
Veins carry blood throughout the body and back to the heart. Each vein contains valves that keep blood moving in one direction, and when those valves become weakened or damaged, they no longer function effectively.
Veins without adequately working valves can’t keep the blood that flows through them moving in the right direction. When this occurs, blood backs up in the veins, and they become enlarged.
What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins occur for numerous reasons, including:
Obesity
Excess weight can place additional pressure on the veins, causing them to become weak or damaged.
Pregnancy
More blood circulates through a woman’s body when she’s pregnant, but overall blood flow decreases from the pelvis to the legs. That sometimes results in varicose veins.
Long periods of standing
Individuals who stand for extended periods of time may experience varicose veins due to poor blood circulation.
Age
The valves that regulate the flow of blood through the veins can become injured and worn as people age. When that happens, blood can start to back up into the veins, causing them to swell.
Gender
Women are at higher risk for varicose veins due to hormonal changes that occur during menstrual periods, pregnancy, and menopause. Medications like birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can also increase a woman’s chances of developing varicose veins.
Are varicose veins harmful?
Many people with varicose veins experience little to no discomfort. However, the potential exists for varicose veins to have a considerably negative impact on a person’s health.
Varicose veins under significant pressure and very close to the skin can burst, causing bleeding. Blood clots may form in the veins, causing significant swelling. Painful ulcers may also develop near varicose veins due to the excessive fluid trapped in the soft tissues.
Eliminate your varicose veins with compassionate care from the vascular surgeon At Amsterdam Medical Practice. Call to schedule an appointment or book one online.