Moncton Vein Clinic Treatment
Referrals & Consultations

(506) 860-2170

 

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Monday - Friday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

100 Arden St. (Suite 105)

Moncton, NB   E1C 4B7

Moncton Vein Clinic Treatment
Referrals & Consultations

(506) 860-2170

 

Moncton Vein Clinic Treatment

VARICOSE VEINS

Varicose Veins Treatments

FAQ

What are veins?

Veins are blood vessels that carry blood to the heart, from tissues throughout body. When a vein works properly, valves (flaps that open and close) inside the vein keep blood flowing in only one direction — toward the heart.

Venous valves and Reflux

To push blood back to your heart, your veins rely mainly on surrounding muscles and a network of one-way valves. As blood flows through a vein, the cup-like valves open to allow blood through, then close to prevent backflow. In varicose veins, the valves do not work properly, allowing blood to pool in the vein and making it difficult for the muscles to push the blood “uphill.” Healthy vs Diseased Vein youtube link

Are varicose veins dangerous?

Although they can be unsightly and uncomfortable, varicose veins aren’t dangerous for most people. They may be a cosmetic concern for patients. Varicose veins can be associated with a brown discolouration (staining) or small purple or dark blue veins (reticular or spider veins). In addition to these visual changes, if varicose veins worsen can cause symptoms of discomfort, aching, mild swelling, burning, itching or fatigue. When inflamed, they become tender to the touch and may develop clots (superficial thrombophlebitis) These superficial veins are extra veins and can be ablated without harm to your health or circulation.

What is the difference between varicose veins and spider veins?

Varicose veins and spider veins are both types of venous disease, but they look different. Spider veins are smaller and thinner than varicose veins . They look like red or blue spider webs or branches of a tree, and they are close to the skin’s surface. Spider veins aren’t usually painful.

Who is likely to get varicose veins?

Anyone can develop varicose veins, but women are more likely to have them than men. Certain factors increase your chances of developing varicose veins, including:

  • During the aging process, vein walls and valves don’t work as well as they used to; they lose elasticity and stiffen.
  • Women who are pregnant, taking the birth control pill or going through menopause have a higher risk of varicose veins because of changes in hormone levels (Female hormones can allow the walls of the veins to stretch).
  • The condition is inherited (runs in families).
  • Standing or sitting for long periods decreases circulation.
  • Wearing restrictive clothing, such as girdles or pants with tight waistbands
  • Certain health conditions, such as severe constipation, increase pressure in the veins.
  • People who smoke are more likely to develop varicose veins.
  • Obesity and excess weight increase the pressure in the veins.

How is vein disease diagnosed?

A venous ultrasound is a simple, non-invasive method to thoroughly assess the veins of your legs. The ultrasound shows abnormal veins and sites of reversed flow (reflux), which are the cause of your varicose veins.

This information is essential to formulate a customized plan for you.

When to see a Vascular Surgeon?

If concerned about the problems related to varicose veins noted above, a vascular assessment would be useful.

How common are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are very common. Around one-third of all adults have varicose veins. They are more common in women than in men.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are abnormally large, twisted, bluish veins that bulge under the skin in the legs
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varicose veins on the skin. Macro shot. Madical and cosmetic problem

Varicose veins occur when the walls of veins become weakened. The weakened walls allow the vein to get bigger. As the vein stretches, the valves in the vein can’t work like they should.
Varicose veins are branches of one of two main superficial veins called the greater (long) or lesser (short) saphenous vein .

What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

The most recognizable symptoms of varicose veins include:

  • Heavy legs: Muscles in the legs may feel tired, heavy or sluggish, especially after physical activity.
  • Itching: The area around the varicose veins may itch.
  • Pain: Legs may be painful, achy or sore, especially behind the knees. You might have muscle cramps.
  • Swelling: The legs, ankles and feet can swell and throb.
  • Skin discolorations and ulcers: If left untreated, varicose veins can cause brown discolorations on the skin. Venous ulcers (sores) on the skin can result from severe varicose veins.

Can You Prevent Varicose Veins?

Even though your genetics play a part in your risk for varicose veins, there are things you can do to prevent them.

  • Exercise regularly. Staying fit is the best way to keep your leg muscles toned, your blood flowing, and your weight under control.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight or obese, lose weight. Weight control prevents excess pressure buildup on veins of the legs and feet.
  • Avoid tight clothing. Tight clothes can constrict blood flow in the waste, groin, or legs.
  • Avoid high heel shoes.  Wearing high heels for prolonged periods of time can hinder circulation. Flat or low-heel shoes are better for circulation, as they improve calf muscle tone.
  • Stretch and exercise your legs as often as possible to increase circulation and reduce pressure buildup. If your daily routine requires you to be on your feet constantly, consider wearing daily support hose.
  • Quit smoking. Studies show that smoking may contribute to the development of varicose veins.

What can be done to deal with varicose veins?

There are multiple approaches to treat varicose veins. Common approaches include removing the varicosities through stripping or via a microsurgical technique; injecting, burning varicosities with a laser to create thrombophlebitis (clotting) with scarring of the veins or collapsing the veins with glue.

We emphasize minimally invasive techniques that cause only minor discomfort and let you return to your usual activities immediately after treatment.

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Referrals & Consultations
Moncton Vein Clinic
Moncton Vein Clinic

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Moncton Vein Clinic
Dr. Christos Lioupis

100 Arden Street (Suite 105)
Moncton, NB E1C4B7