Varicose Veins

About one in three adults has varicose veins. Many people think varicose veins are solely a cosmetic issue, but they can affect your mobility and quality of life as well. At Heart and Vascular Care in Plano, Texas, board-certified cardiologist Bhupinder Singh, MD, offers varicose vein treatment for men and women, including laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, vein stripping, and phlebectomy. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book online today.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are large, bulging, visible veins that occur just beneath the surface of the skin. They can develop anywhere in the body, but they’re especially common near the great saphenous vein (GSV) and small saphenous vein (SSV), two superficial veins that run along the outer surface of the legs, thighs, and buttocks. 

Varicose veins occur as a result of chronic venous insufficiency (venous reflux). This ailment causes damage to your vein valves––tiny lids that open and close to allow blood flow to your heart. If your vein valves don’t close completely, your blood flows backward and pools. As your blood pools, it causes your veins to bulge, gnarl, and twist.

What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

The most obvious symptom of varicose veins is large red, green, or purple veins. As time goes on, you might also experience:

• Leg swelling (edema)
• Leg pain
• Leg itching
• Leg burning
• Leg heaviness
• Leg fatigue
• Spider veins
• Discoloration

Without proper treatment, varicose veins only get worse. This can lead to pain, immobility, and deep vein reflux.

How are varicose veins diagnosed?

To diagnose varicose veins, Dr. Singh conducts a physical exam. During your exam, he looks at your legs, thighs, and ankles for signs of swelling and redness. He also asks you questions about your symptoms and if you’re experiencing any pain, itching, or aching in your legs.

Next, Dr. Singh uses the CEAP classification consensus document to rate the severity of your varicose veins. CEAP is an acronym for clinical manifestation, etiologic factors, anatomic distribution, and pathophysiologic dysfunction. It guides Dr. Singh when developing a custom care plan. 

Lastly, If Dr. Singh suspects you have venous insufficiency, he conducts an ultrasound. This diagnostic imaging test uses soundwaves to produce images of the inside of your body. He uses these images to determine if your veins function as they should. An ultrasound can also detect evidence of a blood clot.

How are varicose veins treated?

At Heart and Vascular Care, Dr. Singh offers a wide variety of safe, effective varicose vein treatments, including:

• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
• Laser ablation
• VenaSeal™
• Vein closure
• ClosureFast™
• Vein stripping
• Phlebectomy
• Ambulatory phlebectomy
• Compression stockings

The type of treatment you’ll most benefit from depends on your health history and the severity of your varicose veins. 

Depending on your individual needs, Dr. Singh might recommend one treatment or a combination of several. Ultimately, the goal of varicose vein treatment is to relieve discomfort and improve mobility. Custom care can also improve the aesthetic appearance of your skin, allowing you to wear shorts, skirts, or swimsuits confidently.

To schedule your appointment for varicose veins at Heart and Vascular Care, call the office or book online today.