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When to Worry About Varicose Veins

If you have bulging, rope-like veins on your legs, you may have wondered whether you need to see a specialist about them. At Premier Vein and Body by Schwartz, Dr. Craig Schwartz treats varicose veins to relieve or prevent symptoms. Varicose veins may be a symptom of a more serious condition called venous insufficiency, so if you have concerns, see a vein specialist like Dr. Schwartz for an assessment. 

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What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins occur due to venous reflux or insufficiency. Veins need valves to keep blood from pooling. The Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) runs from the ankle to the groin, making it the longest vein in the body. When blood begins to pool in this vein, it backs up into its network of smaller veins. These become enlarged and discolored, turning into varicose veins. 

When to Worry About Varicose Veins

Varicose veins may or may not be symptomatic.  If you do experience symptoms from your varicose veins, Dr. Schwartz recommends scheduling a consultation, where he will review your medical history and conduct a visual exam of the affected leg(s). He will then recommend a venous duplex ultrasound if he suspects your symptoms are the result of venous reflux.  This painless in-office test is required by insurance before proceeding with vein treatment and assists Dr. Schwartz in mapping out the roadblocks in your venous system and determining his recommended course of treatment. 

Itching, aching, or heaviness are common symptoms of varicose veins. Less common symptoms include the following:

  • Sores or ulcers
  • Painful veins
  • Veins that feel hot
  • Pain and swelling in the legs

Anyone with varicose veins can benefit from an assessment. If you do have venous insufficiency, insurance will usually cover your treatment. It is important to note that vein disease will not get better on its own, and will often only worsen, possibly leading to advanced conditions, including venous ulcers, chronic venous insufficiency and lymphedema.

Consultations Available Now

To learn more, schedule your consultation with Dr. Schwartz by filling out the form on this page or by calling his practice at 913-451-8346. Premier Vein & Body by Schwartz serves patients throughout the Kansas City metro.

How are Varicose Veins Treated?

Endovenous Laser Ablation

Using the TVS 1470nm laser, Dr. Schwartz performs an endovenous laser ablation to “close” the diseased GSV.  The thermal energy of the laser damages the inside of the diseased GSV, and the treated vein will scar and collapse, redirecting blood flow through other pathways. 

Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy

Using ultrasound imaging, Dr. Schwartz injects a sclerosing solution into the vein. This solution scars and damages the inside of the vein, causing it to collapse. 

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

In this procedure, a section of the visible, bulging varicose vein is removed using tiny incisions and special tools, immediately eliminating the visible diseased vein. 

Is There Any Downtime With Varicose Vein Treatment?

All of these outpatient treatments require little to no downtime. You may have a compression bandage or garment to wear, which will help the treated veins collapse, as well as promote healthy blood flow. You may be advised to limit strenuous activity for a few days, but you will be encouraged to walk every day to keep the blood moving. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Varicose Vein Treatment?

If you have visible varicose veins and/or present with venous insufficiency on your venous diagnostic ultrasound, you are most likely a good candidate for one of these state-of-the-art treatments, often covered by insurance.  

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Take the Next Step

If you have further questions about varicose veins, please call us at (913) 451-8346 or complete our online contact form, and one of our trusted staff members will reach out to you. Premier Vein & Body is located in Kansas City, MO, and proudly serves Overland Park, Johnson County, and the entire Kansas City metro area.

** This blog provides general information and discussion about medicine, health, and related subjects. The words and other content in this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If anyone has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.

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