What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are a result of a malfunction in the circulatory system. This system is designed such that arteries carry oxygen-rich blood to the outer extremities of the body, and then veins transport the deoxygenated blood back to the heart and lungs so it can be replenished. Valves in the veins (assisted by muscles in the body) control this movement and ensure the blood is flowing in the right direction. Over time, however, these valves can weaken and give way. This may lead to blood pooling in the veins, causing them to stretch, leak, and bulge. This inward damage to the vein causes the surface marks known as varicose or spider veins (spider veins are closer to the surface).
Though undesirable, most varicose veins do not pose any significant health risks. In extreme cases, however, the veins may swell so much that they rupture, which can lead to open sores on the skin.
Tips For Preventing Varicose Veins
- Avoid crossing your legs when sitting, as this can cut off circulation.
- When laying down, elevate your legs so that they are above your heart.
- Avoid wearing tight clothes that may inhibit circulation around your legs, upper thighs, and waist.
- Exercise to improve the muscle tone in your legs (walking, running, squats, swimming, biking etc).
- Avoid standing or sitting for extended period of times without breaks in between.
- Try to lose weight if necessary. Being overweight can put added pressure on your veins.
- Avoid wearing high heels excessively. Walking in flat shoes works the calf muscles more, which will help improve muscle tone.
- Wear support stockings if recommended by your doctor.
Treatment Options For Varicose Veins
While these suggestions may decrease your chances of developing spider or varicose veins, there is no way to guarantee results. Women are often more likely to develop varicose veins than men, predominantly due to the many hormonal changes women undergo throughout their lives as a result of puberty, hormonal birth control methods, pregnancy, and menopause. However, men can suffer from varicose veins as well. If you do develop varicose veins as you age, there are some treatment options available to you. At our medical spa in Lake Ozark MO, we recommend a procedure called Sclerotherapy® to treat uncomplicated spider veins and uncomplicated small varicose veins (veins measuring less than 3 mm in diameter). Specifically, we offer Asclera® injections to help treat varicose veins. Here is a description of how this procedure works. (Summary pulled from Asclera.com.)
Asclera® is a sclerosing agent that is injected into the vein. It works by damaging the endothelium, the cells lining the inside of blood vessels. This causes blood platelets and cellular debris to attach to the lining of the vessels; eventually, cellular debris and platelets cause the blood vessel to clot. Over time, the clotted vein will be replaced with tissue.
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| *Individual results may vary depending on varicose vein severity, disease progression, skin tone, and number of treatments. Photos: patients from EASI study (pulled from Asclera.com). |
Contact Serenity Medical Spa For More Information About Sclerotherapy®!
Your spa physician at the Lake of the Ozarks and the rest of our staff are here to help you become the most beautiful version of yourself. If you would like more information about treating varicose veins, contact our medical spa at the Lake of the Ozarks to schedule your private consultation. We would be more than happy to help you in any way we can!
Lake of the Ozarks Premier Medical Spa
Beauty is our Business
111 Crossings West, Suite 3
Lake Ozark, MO 65049
573-365-5002
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