Varicose veins are a common vascular condition that affects more than 30% of adults, particularly women and older individuals. Though often dismissed as a cosmetic issue, varicose veins can lead to discomfort, swelling, and even serious complications if left untreated. At Aria Vascular, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating varicose veins using advanced, minimally invasive methods backed by the latest technology.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that usually develop in the legs and are visible under the skin. They result from weakened or damaged vein valves, which allow blood to pool rather than flow efficiently back to the heart.
Varicose Veins vs. Spider Veins
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that usually develop in the legs and are visible under the skin. They result from weakened or damaged vein valves, which allow blood to pool rather than flow efficiently back to the heart.
- Varicose veins: Larger, raised, and often painful
- Spider veins: Smaller, superficial, and typically painless but can be a sign of underlying venous insufficiency
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors contribute to the development of varicose veins:
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): A condition where blood doesn't flow properly through the veins
- Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Occupations that involve long periods of immobility can strain leg veins
- Pregnancy: Increased blood volume and hormonal changes
- Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on leg veins
- Age and Genetics: Vein elasticity naturally decreases with age, and a family history increases risk
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can cause both physical and cosmetic concerns. Common symptoms include:
- Bulging, twisted veins visible on the legs
- Aching, heaviness, or cramping in the legs
- Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
- Burning or itching sensations around the veins
- Skin discoloration or open sores in severe cases (venous ulcers)
When to Seek Treatment
Many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, but medical intervention is warranted when:
- Pain and discomfort limit daily activities
- Persistent swelling occurs
- Skin around the vein becomes discolored or ulcerated
- A history of blood clots or vein-related complications exists
Early intervention helps prevent worsening of symptoms and complications such as skin infections, ulcers, and deep vein thrombosis.
Advanced Treatment Options at Aria Vascular
Aria Vascular provides a full spectrum of advanced, outpatient-based treatments for varicose and spider veins. These methods are designed to minimize recovery time and maximize results. Typical recovery times range from 1 to 2 days for most procedures, with patients resuming normal activity shortly after treatment. Aria Vascular provides a full spectrum of advanced, outpatient-based treatments for varicose and spider veins:
1. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
A laser fiber is inserted into the affected vein to collapse and seal it shut using thermal energy.
2. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Similar to EVLA, this uses radiofrequency energy to heat and close the vein.
3. Sclerotherapy
A chemical solution is injected into spider veins, causing them to collapse and fade over time.
4. Microphlebectomy
Small incisions are made to physically remove larger varicose veins near the skin’s surface.
5. Ultrasound-Guided Interventions
Small incisions are made to physically remove larger varicose veins near the skin’s surface.
Benefits of These Procedures:
These procedures enhance precision by using ultrasound to visualize deeper veins in real time.
- Minimally invasive
- Little to no downtime
- Excellent cosmetic results
- Often covered by insurance when medically necessary
Post-Treatment Care and Prevention
Many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, but medical intervention is warranted when:
- Wear compression stockings for at least 1–2 weeks post-treatment or as advised by your specialist to support healing and improve circulation
- Elevate legs when resting to reduce pressure
- Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay active with regular walking or low-impact exercises
- Wear compression stockings to support healing and improve circulation
- Elevate legs when resting to reduce pressure
- Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay active with regular walking or low-impact exercises
Conclusion
Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic nuisance—they are a sign of underlying vascular issues that can affect your health and quality of life. Early consultation with a vein specialist can prevent further complications and improve both function and appearance. Many treatments are covered by insurance when deemed medically necessary.
At Aria Vascular, we offer advanced, customized treatment plans to help patients in Stockton and San Joaquin County feel better, move easier, and regain confidence in their legs. Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic nuisance—they are a sign of underlying vascular issues that can affect your health and quality of life. At Aria Vascular, we offer advanced, customized treatment plans to help patients in Stockton and San Joaquin County feel better, move easier, and regain confidence in their legs.
