The Vein Institute

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What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are the thick, ropey, purple or blue veins that appear on the surface of your veins. They form when blood pools in a weak section of the vein, swelling and bulging against your skin.

In addition to their appearance, varicose veins can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as itching, burning, cramping, and aches. Your skin might also change texture or color around your varicose veins. 

What causes varicose veins?

Your veins have small valves that help push your blood toward your heart. When those valves are weak or don’t work properly, your blood can leak backward in your veins, pool, and cause a varicose vein to form.

Your risk of varicose veins increases if you’re overweight or spend a long time on your feet every day. Peripheral vascular disease can also weaken your veins and contribute to your chances of developing varicose veins. Peripheral vascular disease is also a warning sign of other cardiovascular health problems.

When should I talk to a doctor about varicose veins?

Make an appointment at Upper East Side Cardiology if you have varicose veins at all. Varicose veins are an indicator of vascular health problems and can lead to blood clots, bleeding veins, and leg ulcers.

The providers at Upper East Side Cardiology can evaluate your varicose veins and peripheral vascular health. They examine your legs, checking the pulse in your ankles and the temperature of your skin.

The providers also use state-of-the-art vascular ultrasounds to visualize your veins, identifying areas of weakness and blockage. These tests help your provider create a customized treatment plan to restore your vascular health.

Are varicose veins a deeper sign of trouble?

Read more to find out

How do you treat varicose veins?

Your provider at Upper East Side Cardiology tailors your treatment plan to address your specific condition. 

For example, they might suggest wearing compression stockings and making time to elevate your legs during the day. Often, additional exercise, such as a brisk walk, can help improve circulation. 

However, if your veins are causing discomfort or putting you at risk for other health complications, Dr. Bhusri might suggest additional treatments such as radiofrequency ablation through the ClosureFast procedure (ClosureFast™ by Medtronic), a specially formulated adhesive (VenaSeal™ Closure System), sclerotheraphy (Varithena®), and telangiectasia & spider veins (VeinGogh™)

These procedures close and seal your varicose veins. Your blood is forced to flow through healthier veins, and over time, your varicose veins empty of blood and disappear. 

Your provider might also recommend further cardiovascular testing or treatment if your varicose veins evaluation reveals other health problems.