4 Varicose vein transformations of our patients

Varicose veins, those visibly twisted and bulging vessels beneath the skin, often spark concerns among many individuals, particularly in the legs. This blog post delves into the world of varicose veins, shedding light on their nature, underlying causes, and potential treatment avenues.

Understanding Varicose Veins

Varicose veins manifest as swollen, twisted vessels just beneath the skin’s surface. Despite their alarming appearance, they’re a prevalent condition that can provoke sensations of discomfort, pain, or a feeling of heaviness in the legs.

Causes Behind Varicose Veins

The primary culprit behind varicose veins is malfunctioning vein valves. These valves play a crucial role in regulating blood flow by allowing it to move towards the heart while preventing pooling in the veins. When these valves fail, blood accumulates in the veins, leading to their enlargement. Venous reflux disease, also known as venous stasis, venous insufficiency, or venous incompetence, is often the underlying cause of this condition.

Deciphering Venous Reflux

Venous reflux refers to the backward flow of blood against gravity due to faulty valves. Normally, calf muscles assist in pumping blood upward, but leaky valves cause blood to pool in the lower legs, resulting in the visible bulging veins seen on the skin’s surface. The great and small saphenous veins, responsible for returning blood from the legs to the heart, are commonly affected. In over 90% of leg varicose vein cases, these veins are implicated.

Insights from Research

A notable study led by Dr. Nisha Bunke, published in the Journal of Vascular Ultrasound in 2018, examined over 1,000 varicose vein-affected legs. The research underscored the great and small saphenous veins as primary contributors to varicose veins. Specifically, the Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) traversing the thigh and calf’s middle and the Small Saphenous Vein (SSV) along the calf’s back were frequently involved.

Available Treatments

Fortunately, there are treatment options available to alleviate discomfort and improve the appearance of varicose veins. Minimally invasive procedures such as laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and sclerotherapy have demonstrated efficacy in treating varicose veins.

Visual Proof: Patient Transformations: We used a variety of different minimally invasive vein treatments for these patients. For more information of what types of treatments we offer, check out our website tab of vein treatments. 

The results of varicose vein treatment can be remarkable. Many individuals experience significant improvements in both vein appearance and associated symptoms. Before-and-after images serve as testimony to the positive impact proper treatment can have on vascular health and overall well-being.

While varicose veins are common, understanding their causes and available treatments empowers individuals to manage their vascular health effectively. With modern medical techniques, those dealing with varicose veins can find relief and witness a considerable improvement in their quality of life. Whether exploring the role of faulty vein valves, delving into venous reflux intricacies, or considering diverse treatment approaches, education and awareness pave the path to healthier veins.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

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