It is estimated that 40% of women have varicose veins or spider veins. Men also develop them, but with less frequency. Although there are many reasons given for the development of these unsightly veins and capillaries, the most common cause is heredity. Most of these can be easily and safely removed, as described below.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, non-functional, veins that are more than 2 millimeters in width and may exceed 2 centimeters. They may appear blue or green but often no color is seen. In this latter circumstance, they appear as protruding, tortuous cords that course under the skin. Varicose veins are apparent when standing but often seem to disappear when lying down or with leg elevation. That’s because the incompetent valves – that are characteristic of varicose veins – are unable to prevent blood from flowing backwards as illustrated in the diagram below. Sclerotherapy and Endovenous Ablation are the most effective non-surgical methods for removing varicose veins.