Varicose Veins - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Whichdoctor should I consult if I have varicose veins?

A: Your primary care doctor might recommend that you see a doctor who specializes in vein conditions called a vascular surgeon or a phlebologist.

Q: Why do women get affected by varicose veins more often?

A: Women do get affected more often than men. It can be attributed to pregnancy. The extra weight of the pregnant uterus can compress the veins and cause increased back pressure in them. Weight gain and hormonal changes during pregnancy contribute to the formation of varicose veins.

Q: What are the complications of varicose veins?

A: 

• Thrombophlebitis — inflammation of a vein before a blood clot forms.
• Venous ulcers
• Eczema — an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions, which become scaly, crusted, or hardened.
• Hemorrhage — an abundant discharge of blood from the blood vessels.

Q: How common are varicose veins?

A: More than 80 million Americans suffer from disease of the veins. About 50-55% of women and 40-45% of men suffer from some form of vein problem. Varicose veins affect 1 out of every 2 people older than the age of 50.

Q: What happens to varicose veins if left untreated?

A: Leaving varicose veins untreated can lead to skin ulcers from small cuts or minor wounds that refuse to heal. The area will swell, and the tension from the veins prevents the swelling from receding. In order to treat the veins, you'll have to first treat the swelling.