Now that spring is around the corner, several patients are asking about varicose veins. Questions asked include: why do they come about? what can be done to treat them?

Superficial veins close to the skin surface can become engorged and appear to bulge. These seem to occur most commonly in the legs and feet.
A common theory suggests that varicose veins are due to ineffecient valves in the vein which allows the vessel to become engorged and stretch. Over time the fluid in the vein can seep out of the vessel and into the surrounding tissue causing swelling and skin discoloration.

Some suggested treatments at home:

1. wear fitted support stockings
2. lose weight
3. elevating the legs above the heart for 30 mins 2-3 times daily
4.avoid crossing legs
5. avoid prolonged standing

More severe cases may require physician intervention. Some of these treatments include:
1. surgical ligation( surgically tying off the vessel)
2. venous stripping (actually removing the vein)
3. sclerotherapy ( injecting the vein with a solution that destroys the vessel)
4.laser ablation