Varicose Veins- it is something that you have probably heard your mother or grandmother, maybe even your father, talk about at one point or another. This condition affects 80 million Americans each year there are several treatment options available. With their knotted appearance and varying colors, it is understandable why so many people seek treatment.

One of the diagnostic tools used by Emory is known as duplex ultrasound imaging, which uses sound waves to trace a patient’s blood flow through the body. After a diagnosis has been reached there are two approaches to dealing with both varicose and spider veins, the first of which is known as the conservative approach. This method deals with wearing “compression stockings” that help to improve blood flow as well as to compress veins and lessen their purple, blue, and red visible damage.

The second method of treatment involves a variety of more aggressive methods which are laser treatment, Sclerotherapy for spider veins, and an ambulatory phlebectomy. The last method involves a local anesthetic that is given to the patient and that leaves imperceptible marks on the skin. Ambulatory Phlebectomy is also an outpatient surgery that is performed by Emory Healthcare at either of their Atlanta campuses.

Women have a much higher chance of getting spider and varicose veins than men do and they can be aggravated by too much standing for too long, obesity, and also injuries of the leg or thigh. Heightened hormones can also cause varicose veins so things such as puberty, birth control pills, estrogen injections, and menopause can all lend themselves to these unsightly veins that most often show up on the legs.

As you can see, whether you have had these veins for a long time or if they are just starting to pop up, if they are red, blue, or purple, or if they hurt, there is a treatment for you out there somewhere. Emory Healthcare also offers various other treatments for both Varicose and Spider Veins. When left untreated these veins tend to get worse so the best idea is to schedule an appointment with a professional as soon as you recognize the symptoms.