Everybody’s heard of varicose veins, but how many people know what they actually are? Here at the Vein Institute of New Jersey, with eight (8) convenient locations, in Clifton, Landing, Livingston, Morristown, Princeton, Rockaway, Shrewsbury and Westfield, we’ve found most people aren’t aware of some of the fundamental facts about varicose veins, and that lack of understanding can have an impact on how they deal with the problem.
Muscles in the legs contract to pump blood in the veins back up to the heart against the force of gravity, and valve leaflets in the veins close between the muscle contractions to prevent blood from flowing backwards. If the valves weaken or the vein becomes distended, the valves no longer close properly, allowing blood to flow backwards and pool, sometimes resulting in a varicose vein, those prominent blue or purple superficial veins that have become enlarged because of problems in the circulatory system.
They appear on the leg most often, but any vein can become varicose. Varicose veins are distinguished from reticular veins by their larger size, measuring more than 3mm, or about one-tenth of an inch across. Though many people think varicose veins affect only women or only older people, somewhere from about 25 to 40 percent of men develop varicose veins by the age of 60, and with its hereditary influence, some people may develop varicose veins while still in their 20s. There is also a strong link between pregnancy and the development of varicose veins.
Fortunately, varicose veins on the legs, in many cases, are simply a cosmetic problem. However, varicose veins may cause aches and discomfort in the surrounding area. But with today’s advanced medical technologies, varicose vein treatment and relief is a reality. Treatments performed by our specialized vein doctors include Laser Ablation, Sclerotherapy and other surgical techniques, that work to remove veins in a simple and safe manner.
Want to learn more about varicose vein treatment in NJ. Schedule an appointment here at one of our convenient locations.