Varicose Veins
Veins are responsible for bringing blood back to the heart.
In the leg, there are 2 systems of veins that do this (a helpful analogy is to picture these 2 systems as “highways”).
The Deep System – which you don’t see – carries 90% of the blood.
The Superficial System – which you often DO see – carries the rest.
It is only this Superficial System or (Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) and its branches that may develop Varicose Veins.
(Fortunately, if parts of the superficial system are removed or treated with laser, the blood that was in those veins will be easily absorbed by the Deep System.)
What are “Varicose Veins“?
Veins are designed to carry flow in one direction. They accomplish this by having valves which open and close but only allow blood to flow in one direction (to the heart) to help counteract the force of gravity.
When these valves become weak, blood will start to back flow or “pool” in your lower leg veins, causing distension and eventually the appearance of bulging (varicose) veins.
Varicose veins are almost exclusively a genetic trait that you inherited from your parents. You did not cause them. However, pregnancy, obesity and prolonged standing without much movement often make them worse.
If left untreated, Varicose Veins will eventually cause swelling, aching and tiredness of the legs…usually worse towards the end of the day.
Further, less common problems include…ulceration, skin changes, phlebitis (painful, inflammation of the veins) and bleeding if the vein is scraped.
Let The Vein & Laser Centre recommend the right Treatment of Varicose Veins for you.
