Genetics - People with a family history of varicose veins are at greater risk of developing the condition.
Gender - Women are at greater risk than men. Estrogen and progesterone cause blood vessels to relax, thus separating the valves so that they don't meet to block the back flow of blood.
Pregnancy - Varicose veins may surface for the first time or may worsen during later months of pregnancy. This is a combination of the increased levels of progesterone and the pressure of the pregnant uterus on the pelvis.
Obesity - Excess weight puts pressure on surface veins, causing them to weaken.
Prolonged sitting or standing - People who have jobs that require them to stand or sit for long periods have an increased risk of developing varicose veins.
Varicose veins may result in some discomfort and in some cases can cause serious medical problems. For some people, varicose veins only cause a problem in terms of appearance where they choose not to wear shorts or skirts that may show their legs.
We offer a free screening consultation to all our new patients. At this appointment, we will evaluate the superficial veins of your leg(s) utilizing ultrasound equipment.
We will take a history to find out what symptoms you have as well as any previous treatments.
If you have enlarged veins that are allowing backward flow of blood during the ultrasound exam, we will obtain benefit information from your health insurance provider and review it with you. Our insurance professionals will evaluate your coverage and determine if your insurance policy will cover treatment and at what level. We will obtain preauthorization from the insurance company and can inform you of your anticipated responsibility.
You will require a preoperative planning vein mapping ultrasound. During this ultrasound exam, the vascular technologist will develop a detailed map of all the veins in your leg, including any superficial or perforator veins. This permits a surgical treatment plan to be individualized to your specific needs. This will also be submitted to your insurance company for them to review your case for approval.
