Are you experiencing strange symptoms around your legs? Maybe your legs are aching, or perhaps you’ve developed large, purple veins. Whatever the issue is, it’s important not to ignore it. Your legs are trying to send you a message, and our team at MAPS is here to help you decipher it. We offer a wide range of personalized treatment plans designed to treat varicose veins, boost comfort and restore your confidence. Keep reading to learn more about this condition and how our vein specialist in Chicago can help you.
Beyond the Bulges: Understanding Varicose Veins
If you’re new to the world of varicose veins, you may be wondering: What exactly are they? And why do I have them? Let’s start by reviewing how veins work. In healthy systems, veins rely on valves to make blood flow from the body to the heart. When veins become damaged, their valves no longer operate properly. This causes blood to collect in the veins, resulting in swelling, enlargement and that signature purple color.
In the United States alone, over 40 million adults have varicose veins. While anyone can suffer from this condition, you’re more likely to experience it if you meet the following risk factors:
- Age: You’re more likely to have varicose veins if you’re over the age of 40.
- Pregnancy: Varicose veins are a common side effect of pregnancy.
- Family history: Your risk increases if you have a family history of varicose veins.
- Lifestyle: People who have sedentary lifestyles or who sit or stand for long periods of time are at higher risk.
- Obesity: There’s a direct link between obesity and varicose veins.
Ultimately, varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic issue—they also cause pain, swelling and heaviness. Over time, they may develop into chronic venous insufficiency, a medical condition that blocks the flow of blood to your heart.
Decoding the Messages: Common Varicose Vein Symptoms
To prevent varicose veins from worsening, you have to recognize signs that something is wrong. The most obvious sign is, of course, a change in appearance. If your veins are large, purple and twisted, you likely have varicose veins. Here are a few other common symptoms:
- Leg swelling and heaviness
- Dull, aching pain
- Muscle cramping
- Burning or throbbing sensation
- Itchy veins
- Skin discoloration
- Restless legs that disrupt sleep
If you notice any of these symptoms, your legs are trying to send you a message: They need help. Fortunately, there are treatments available.
When to Seek Help: Finding a Vein Clinic Near Me
Are you looking for long-term, minimally invasive varicose vein treatments? At MAPS, we offer high-quality, effective treatment plans that are tailored to your unique needs. We’ll start by conducting a diagnostic ultrasound to pinpoint the underlying problem. Then, we’ll determine the best solution for your condition. Our vein treatments include the following:
- Sclerotherapy: This treatment involves injecting a solution directly into the affected vein. The solution irritates the blood vessel, causing the damaged vein to collapse and allowing for healthy blood flow.
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): During this procedure, a small catheter is inserted directly into the vein wall. Once in place, it delivers radiofrequency energy that heats the damaged veins and makes them collapse.
- Adhesive ablation: Like RFA treatments, this procedure involves inserting a catheter into the vein. However, instead of heat, it delivers a medical adhesive that closes the veins.
- Varithena: This treatment uses microfoam to close down damaged veins and encourage blood flow.
All of our vein treatments are non-surgical, effective and long-lasting. Unsure which one is right for you? Our team is here to help.
Listen to Your Legs: Contact Our Vein Specialist in Chicago Today!
If you’re dealing with leg pain and varicose veins, you’re not alone. From age to genetics, there are many reasons behind this uncomfortable condition. No matter the cause, our team at MAPS will help you find relief. Using state-of-the-art technology, we’ll identify the root of your vein condition and devise a high-quality, personalized treatment plan.