When Unsightly Varicose Veins Are More Than a Cosmetic Problem

Varicose veins are generally blue or dark purple and may appear as twisted bulging cords anywhere on the lower extremities from your groin, legs to your ankles. Most people who have painless varicose leg veins and are bothered by their unsightly appearance, seek cosmetic treatment.  But what they won’t get from cosmetic treatment alone is an evaluation of their problem and determination if hidden underlying venous disease is present. This is because most cosmetic vein treatment is provided by physicians who are not board certified in phlebology (vein treatment), do not have equipment for detecting a problem with the venous system  and provide cosmetic services that are limited to removing existing varicose veins. Why is this a problem? In the event that venous disease is present, it is just a matter of time before new varicose veins will emerge along with a variety of other potentially serious signs and symptoms.

How do you know if your varicose veins are a cosmetic problem or a sign of more serious venous disease?

When underlying venous disease is present, often painful signs and symptoms accompany the varicose veins. Some of these include:

• Leg pain that is often described as an ache, burning, throbbing, cramping or heavy feeling in the legs.
• Swelling in the legs.
• Leg pain that increases after prolonged sitting or standing.
• Itching sensation near a varicose vein.
• Thickened, discolored skin or evidence of ulceration in the lower extremities.

Any or all of these symptoms may be present when there is underlying venous disease associated with varicose veins.

Not only can venous disease be detected with the proper venous ultrasound diagnostic equipment by a venous disease specialist, it can be totally cured and often the evaluation and treatment is covered by insurance. These are indeed some very good reasons not to settle for cosmetic varicose vein treatment and to seek the services of a vein treatment expert.

If you or someone you know is suffering from venous disease symptoms, request a vein treatment consultation by Dr. Douglas, Joyce, D.O., at the Joyce Vein & Aesthetic Institute in Punta Gorda, Florida.