Varicose Veins Making You Blue?
Dr. Imran Mohiuddin
Cardiovascular Surgeon
Methodist DeBakey
Heart Center |
Nearly 30% of Americans
are troubled with varicose
veins. "For some people,
varicose veins are simply
a cosmetic problem," says
Imran Mohiuddin, M.D., a
cardiovascular surgeon with
the Methodist DeBakey Heart
Center. "However, for many
people the veins can become
larger and more noticeable,
and over time cause pain
and swelling. More serious
consequences include discoloration of the skin
and ulcerations."
What Causes Varicose Veins?
"Veins are designed to allow blood to flow from
other parts of the body toward the heart, and valves
within the veins close to prevent the blood from
flowing backwards," Dr. Mohiuddin says. "These
valves can weaken and allow the blood to back
up and pool in the legs."
Varicose veins occur most commonly in the legs
and feet. Common risk factors include:
- Age – increased age can weaken the valves in
the veins.
- Gender – women are more prone to varicose
veins than men.
- Genetics – individuals whose family members
have varicose veins are more likely to develop them.
- Excess weight – obesity is associated with
varicose veins.
- Certain occupations – including jobs that
require standing for long periods
of time.
 Treating Varicose Veins
There are a number of ways to treat varicose veins,
depending on the severity. With sclerotherapy,
typically used for small spider veins, a solution is
injected into the vein that scars and closes it.
"For those who have symptoms of pain and swelling
with varicose veins, I use laser or radiofrequency
ablation," Dr. Mohiuddin says. "Laser ablation
makes the vein clot off from the
inside. Radiofrequency ablation,
which is the technique I use most
commonly, heats the vein and
causes it to shrink," he says.
All surgery carries some risk, and
there is a small risk of developing
a clot inside the deep vein. "We do
an ultrasound before and after the
procedure to confirm there is no clot,"
Dr. Mohiuddin says. "If there is a clot, we
generally prescribe blood thinners for a few
months to minimize complications."
To schedule
a spider vein injection
or vein screening
with
Dr. Mohiuddin,
call 866-872-0282
today.
Dr. Mohiuddin is also participating in a clinical trial
for a new therapy that involves an injection of foam
into the varicose vein, offering another potential
option for less-invasive treatment.
Don't Suffer in "Vein"
"With the treatments we have available today, there
is no reason for anyone to suffer with varicose
veins," Dr. Mohiuddin says. "The procedures are
generally covered by health insurance, and most
people are up and around within a day or two."
Whenever a varicose vein becomes painful or if
you have skin discolorations or ulcers, seek out the
advice of your doctor.
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Now's the Time to Rev Up Your Walking Routine
If you think you need to sweat through a
strenuous workout to reap the health benefits
of exercise, think again. Studies have shown
that walking briskly 30 minutes to an hour
on most days can help prevent or fight many
ailments, including heart disease, stroke,
diabetes, cancer and arthritis. Walking
regularly for exercise can also
help improve your mental
health and help with weight
control and weight loss.
Outsmart the Elements
You don't have to belong to a fitness club to
begin a walking regimen. During inclement
weather, simply head to the nearest mall
and walk indoors. When exploring the great
outdoors on foot, keep these tips in mind to
stay comfortable and safe:
- Carry identification with you, be aware of
your surroundings and let someone know
where you are going and when you'll return.
- Dress appropriately. Wear fabrics that wick
away sweat closest to the skin. When the
weather is chilly, an outer layer can protect
you from the elements.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing if you walk
in the evening or early morning.
- Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher
before venturing outside. Remember, you
can get burned even on cloudy days.
Start Slow and Finish Strong
If you haven't been exercising regularly, consult
your physician before beginning. Setting
realistic goals, planning walks in interesting
places and tracking your progress in an activity
journal can help you stick to your routine. |
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