How Do You Get Varicose Veins in Legs?

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that can appear on the legs, feet, or other parts of the body. They are a common condition that affects both men and women. Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins do not work properly, causing blood to flow backward and collect in the veins. This condition, known as chronic venous insufficiency, can cause the veins to become enlarged and twisted, leading to the appearance of varicose veins.
At California Vein Treatment, we offer minimally invasive spider vein and varicose vein treatments, such as sclerotherapy, endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, venaseal, and ambulatory phlebectomy. Before we curate a personalized treatment plan, we always diagnose the root cause of spider veins and varicose veins via duplex ultrasound. Our medical centers for vein treatment are led by board-certified vein doctors, and we offer free insurance verification even before the first appointment.
We discuss how you can get varicose veins in legs, their causes, and how they can be treated.
Causes of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle. Some people may be more prone to developing varicose veins due to their family history, while others may develop them as they age.
Sitting or standing for extended periods of time can also increase your risk of developing varicose veins. When you are sitting or standing for long periods, the blood in your legs has to work harder to flow back up to your heart, which can cause the veins to become enlarged.
Other factors that can contribute to the development of varicose veins include obesity, pregnancy, and hormonal changes. Women are more likely to develop varicose veins than men, and they may also be more likely to develop them during pregnancy.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, swelling, and aching in the legs. Some people may also experience itching, burning, or tingling in the affected areas.
Varicose veins can also cause the skin around the affected area to become discolored or thickened. In severe cases, varicose veins may lead to the development of ulcers or deep vein thrombosis, i.e., blood clots in leg veins.
How to Treat Varicose Veins
If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, it is important to seek treatment to prevent the condition from worsening. There are a variety of treatment options available, depending on the severity of the varicose veins. At California Vein Treatment, we offer minimally invasive treatments that can help to relieve symptoms and improve the appearance of varicose veins.
- Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into the affected veins, which causes them to collapse and eventually fade from view.
- Endovenous laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation are other minimally invasive treatments that use heat to seal off the affected veins.
- Venaseal uses a medical adhesive to seal off the affected veins.
- Ambulatory phlebectomy involves removing the affected veins through small incisions.

Preventing Varicose Veins
While some risk factors for varicose veins, such as genetics and age, cannot be controlled, there are steps you can take to help prevent the condition from developing. If you spend a lot of time sitting or standing, try to take frequent breaks and move around to improve circulation in your legs. Wearing compression stockings can also improve circulation and reduce the risk of developing varicose veins.
Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can also minimize the risk of the condition from developing. If you are pregnant or have a family history of varicose veins, it is important to speak with your doctor about ways to reduce your risk and manage your symptoms. It is also important to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that do not restrict blood flow to your legs.
Avoid crossing your legs when sitting, as this can restrict blood flow and increase your risk of chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. If you have broken capillaries in your feet or other areas of your body, it is important to seek treatment because you may have underlying vein disease, which can eventually lead to varicose veins.
Which Specialist Treats Varicose Veins?
Vein doctors, also known as phlebologists, are specialists who diagnose and treat vein conditions such as varicose veins and spider veins. At California Vein Treatment, our medical centers for vein treatment are led by board-certified vein doctors who have years of experience in treating vein conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our vein doctors to discuss your options for treatment.
Varicose Veins in African Americans
Varicose veins can occur in people of all skin types, including those with black skin or African Americans. However, the appearance of varicose veins may be more noticeable on darker skin tones. At California Vein Treatment, we offer treatments that are safe and effective for people of all skin types. Our board-certified vein doctors have experience treating varicose veins on all skin types, and we work with you to create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns.
Where Can I Get My Varicose Veins Removed?
If you are looking for a varicose veins treatment clinic near you, California Vein Treatment has two convenient locations in California. Our San Diego location is located in the beautiful neighborhood of La Jolla near Torrey Pines beach state park and the Westfield UTC shopping center. Our San Jose location is located near Palo Alto, Sunnydale, and Santa Clara, down the block from the Santa Clara Medical Center and the Santana Row Shopping Mall.
We offer free insurance verification even before your first appointment, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your treatment is covered. Our board-certified vein doctors will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns. Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards healthier legs.
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