According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, over a third of Americans have varicose veins.
Varicose veins are abnormal, bulging, twisting, and rope-like veins which appear just beneath the skin. They develop when blood pools behind the small one-way valves inside the veins. We see them most often in the legs, since these veins must work the most against gravity to get blood back to the heart. Risk factors for varicose veins include advancing age, female gender, obesity, and prolonged bouts of standing or sitting.
Varicose veins can be bothersome simply for cosmetic reasons. They can also cause dull, aching, and cramping pain. Recent research even indicates varicose veins may increase the risk of serious health problems like peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and blood clots. So, regardless of whether your varicose veins physically hurt, or simply make you feel self-conscious because of the way they look, it's important to seek treatment.
Compression stockings can be a useful and relatively simple varicose vein treatment. According to studies, wearing compression stockings may reduce the pain and appearance associated with this venous condition. This is because compression stockings are designed to restore normal circulation and prevent blood from getting stuck in the veins.
The best thing you can do to improve your success with compression stockings is to have them professionally fitted. Our experienced vein physicians can prescribe the right size, height, material, and strength of compression stockings in order for you to get the best results. Just as importantly, we'll teach you or your caregiver how to properly don, doff, and care for your stockings so they work properly and last longer.
But even the best fitting pair of compression stockings may not be enough to fully satisfy your goals. Additional approaches may be necessary, including vascular surgery.
Keep in mind you may be advised to wear compression stockings after a venous procedure, since this can enhance recovery and boost outcomes. In this way, compression stockings are often crucial for post-procedure care, even if they weren't enough on their own to provide relief.
If compression stockings aren't providing the varicose vein relief you're looking for, you do have other options. We invite you to meet our vein physician in Anchorage, AK at the Center for Vein Restoration so you can discuss your best treatment plan. Our surgical interventions include:
These procedures treat varicose veins by closing off or removing damaged veins. We also offer customized guidance for healthy lifestyle changes you can make that further enhance pain relief and vascular health.
If you're frustrated by varicose veins, we invite you to connect with our experienced vein physician by contact the Center for Vein Restoration. Call us to learn more details about our Anchorage location and get started on an individualized program.
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