Often used as a metaphor for the unsightly effects of aging, varicose veins can be much more than just a cosmetic problem—and they affect younger people more than you might think. In fact, almost half of men and women can expect to develop some sort of venous disease before they reach their 60s.

Many factors can make people more likely to develop venous insufficiency, such as a family history of varicose veins, a work environment that requires prolonged sitting or standing, or a history of leg injuries or clots. Even having been pregnant can increase a woman’s risk of developing varicose veins.

So how do you know when you may be suffering from the effects of varicose veins? Pay attention to the following signs:

• Bulging large veins that are visible just under the surface of the skin
• Swelling of your ankles and feet that worsens as the day goes on
• Painful, achy, or “heavy” legs
• Throbbing or cramping in your legs
• Burning or itchy legs, especially on the lower leg and ankle. This is often misdiagnosed as simply “dry skin.”
• Discolored skin below the knees, especially around the ankles
  
  

In more extreme cases, you may even note symptoms such as ulcers, open wounds, or sores; bleeding from varicose veins; or clots in the varicose veins.

When these indicators of varicose veins are present, it can be a sign of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), a treatable but potentially significant medical condition. The doctors at Inovia Vein Specialty Centers can help you better understand your options by discussing your signs and symptoms in a vein consultation.

In a consultation, Inovia Vein doctors can evaluate your symptoms and, with the assistance of a venous ultrasound, help determine the best solution for treating your venous disease. Common treatment approaches include simply watchful waiting or conservative management, including a program of walking, leg elevation, and compression stockings. In other cases, minimally invasive surgical management may be the preferred choice; the options at Inovia Vein include Closurefast, Venaseal, and Varithena, as well as sclerotherapy.

With the benefit of a little knowledge, you can combat the stigma surrounding varicose veins—and retake control of your venous health. And healthy veins can leave you feeling more energetic, more active, and more pain-free.

The home of Oregon’s most experienced vein doctors, Inovia Vein Specialty Centers specialize in caring for patients with venous disorders such as varicose veins, deep venous thrombosis, and venous stasis ulcers. Founded in 2006, we have specialty vein clinics in NW Portland, Tigard, Happy Valley, and Bend, Oregon. Call 1-800-VEIN-DOC (1-800-834-6362) to set up a consultation to learn more about your treatment options.