Varicose veins occur when the superficial leg veins become enlarged and overfilled with blood. The condition affects approximately 30 percent of all adults with a greater presence in women. Symptoms may include the following:

• Leg pain
• Heaviness
• Leg cramps
• Swelling
• Skin discoloration or leg ulcerations

In severe cases, ulcers form over diseased veins that can become infected or bleed.  It is important to understand that varicose veins are not always visible and long term effects from untreated disease can still be serious. Because of this concern, varicose veins should be evaluated by a qualified vein specialist in Paramus NJ.  

Blood is returned to the heart by a network of veins throughout the body.  There are both superficial and deep veins within this network, however superficial veins are vulnerable to the chronic stress of being on our feet so much.  Within all types of veins, blood is prevented from falling backwards with gravity due to muscle function and valves. When the valves in your veins become dysfunctional, the blood accumulates in the legs causing swelling, pain, and heaviness.  The potential risk factors for varicose veins include:

• Genetic predisposition
• Standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time
• Aging
• Obesity
• Pregnancy

A vein specialist is a doctor that specializes in treating spider and varicose veins and the underlying condition, venous insufficiency.  The most qualified vein doctors in Paramus have completed formal training in endovenous procedures during either a residency or fellowship in vascular surgery or interventional cardiology. These specialties are formally recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties and proficient doctors are awarded board certifications in their field of expertise. Board-certifications are available in various specialties including internal medicine, anesthesia or family medicine are well deserved, however not in the treatment of varicose veins.

Varicose vein removal and treatment of venous insufficiency has evolved from the days of vein stripping.  Instead, today’s procedures are minimally-invasive and suited for all types of vein conditions. Best yet, they are done without the need for sedation (unless requested by the patient) and are performed in under 1 hour.

Treatment is essential if you are experiencing symptoms such as leg pain, leg swelling, skin discoloration or restless legs.  The treatment can be as simple as appropriate lifestyle changes and compression stockings. However, for some patients, conservative measures can be insufficient and additional treatments may be warranted.  Vascular treatments including those for veins should only be performed by a board-certified vein specialist.