Conditions
Varicose Veins: More Than a Cosmetic Concern
Varicose veins — the bulging, rope-like veins that appear on the legs — are extremely common, affecting more than one in five adults. They're often thought of as a cosmetic issue, but they're frequently the visible sign of an underlying circulation problem that can cause real symptoms and, over time, real complications.
Cardentey Vascular Care diagnoses what's driving your varicose veins with ultrasound and treats them with modern, minimally invasive techniques — addressing the cause, not just the appearance.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that bulge visibly beneath the skin, most often on the legs. They develop when the one-way valves inside the veins weaken and allow blood to flow backward and pool, a condition called venous reflux. The pooled blood stretches the vein, producing the characteristic bulging, ropey appearance.
Are varicose veins dangerous?
Varicose veins themselves are usually not dangerous, but they can be a sign of chronic venous insufficiency, which is progressive and worth treating. Many people experience aching, heaviness, swelling, itching, or night cramps along with their varicose veins. Left untreated over years, the underlying reflux can lead to skin discoloration, inflammation, and in some cases slow-healing venous ulcers near the ankle. So while the veins you see may not be an emergency, they're worth evaluating.
What are the symptoms?
Many people with varicose veins have symptoms beyond appearance, including:
- Aching, throbbing, or heaviness in the legs
- Swelling in the lower legs and ankles
- Burning, itching, or restless legs
- Leg fatigue or cramping, often worse after long periods of standing
- Symptoms that worsen through the day and ease with elevation
What causes varicose veins, and who gets them?
Varicose veins are caused by failing vein valves and are influenced by genetics and lifestyle. Risk factors include a family history of vein disease, being female, pregnancy, prolonged standing or sitting, older age, and excess weight. Pregnancy is a particularly common trigger because of the added pressure on the leg veins and the hormonal changes that relax vein walls.
How are varicose veins treated?
Treatment depends on your symptoms and what the ultrasound shows. Most patients start with conservative care and move to a minimally invasive procedure if symptoms persist or the underlying reflux warrants it.
- Compression stockings — the conservative first step, supporting the veins and easing symptoms.
- Endovenous ablation — closing the faulty underlying vein from the inside using radiofrequency or laser energy. This is the modern standard and has largely replaced surgical vein stripping.
- VenaSeal — sealing the vein with a medical adhesive, a non-thermal approach that often avoids the need for numbing injections along the vein.
- Sclerotherapy — injections that close smaller surface veins.
- Phlebectomy — removing larger bulging veins through tiny punctures.
These procedures are office-based or outpatient, and most people return to normal activity quickly. When treatment addresses medical symptoms, it's often covered by insurance.
Why does proper diagnosis matter before treating varicose veins?
Because the veins you can see are often not the whole story. A painless venous ultrasound reveals which underlying veins are leaking and driving the problem. Treating only the visible veins without addressing the source of reflux frequently leads to recurrence. Mapping the venous system first means treatment targets the actual cause — which is why an evaluation by a vascular specialist, not just a surface look, is the right starting point.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Not always. While some varicose veins cause no symptoms, many are linked to underlying venous insufficiency and cause aching, swelling, heaviness, or itching. Over time the underlying problem can progress to skin changes or ulcers, so varicose veins are worth evaluating even when they don’t hurt.
No. Varicose veins do not resolve without treatment, and they tend to slowly worsen because the underlying valve problem is progressive. Conservative measures can ease symptoms, and minimally invasive procedures can treat the veins effectively when needed.
Treatment is often covered when it's for medical symptoms — aching, swelling, skin changes, or ulcers — usually after a documented trial of compression. Purely cosmetic treatment is generally not covered. An evaluation can determine whether your situation is likely to qualify.
There's no single best treatment — the right choice depends on which veins are affected and what your ultrasound shows. Endovenous ablation and VenaSeal address the underlying source of reflux, while sclerotherapy and phlebectomy treat surface veins. A vascular specialist matches the approach to your anatomy.
Find out what's behind your varicose veins
If your varicose veins are causing symptoms, or you simply want to understand what's driving them, a vascular evaluation with ultrasound gives you a clear answer and a treatment plan.
Call our Largo office to schedule an evaluation, or request an appointment online.