Affecting almost 23 percent of all Americans, varicose veins are the most common vein disease, with women being twice as susceptible as men. In varicose veins, the valves are dysfunctional or less efficient, therefore blood collects in the veins, which increases pressure within the vein and causes it to bulge and twist. Severity ranges from cosmetic to extremely painful and can be a symptom of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, serious diseases that require medical attention.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are often seen more than felt. Symptoms do not always present themselves so it is important to discuss with your doctor. Those who experience symptoms usually experience the following:

• Swelling and/or numbness in the legs
• Aching leg pain
• Feeling of heaviness in the legs
• Easily tired legs
• Itching or rash on the legs

Risk and Causes of Varicose Veins

Any activity that results in excess pressure being placed on the legs or abdomen could lead to varicose veins. Since symptoms are not always present it is especially important to know your risk of this vein disease as well as what causes it. 

Risk factors include:

• Gender - women are more susceptible than men
• Family history
• Tobacco use

Causes include:

• Physical inactivity
• Obesity
• Hormonal changes (pregnancy or menopause)
• Prolonged standing

Varicose Vein Treatment

For many with varicose veins, the treatment most often used is a minimally invasive procedure known as Endovenous Laser Therapy, or EVLT™. EVLT™ is a newer alternative to the surgical stripping previously used to treat vein conditions. The procedure requires only local anesthesia and patients typically resume their normal activities immediately following the appointment.

Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT™)

Endovenous Laser Treatment is a very effective treatment for most patients with varicose veins. Benefits include:

• No general anesthesia or hospitalization
• Most treatment can be completed in less than an hour
• Immediate relief of symptoms
• Performed in an outpatient setting
• Minimal to no scarring
• Return to normal activity immediately
• Typically covered by insurance

Patients will meet with fellowship trained, board certified vein specialist, Dr. Michael Spain, for an initial consultation. Treatment options will be discussed and any questions will be answered. If EVLT is the right treatment for you, an appointment for the procedure will be scheduled.

EVLT™ – What to Expect

During the laser procedure, Dr. Spain will use ultrasound to map out the affected veins. A local anesthesia is first applied followed by a thin laser fiber getting inserted into the vein via catheter. The laser will collapse the vein, and the blood flow will move to nearby functional veins.

Immediately following the procedure, patients are encouraged to walk around and resume normal activity, though rigorous exercise should be avoided for a few days. During the first week post-treatment, you may experience some minor bruising, soreness and/or tightness in the treatment area. Any discomfort can be controlled with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

Visit a Varicose Vein Specialist

The board certified cardiovascular specialists at Warren Clinic Cardiology of Tulsa are specially trained to care for varicose veins. Call 918-494-8500 to learn more or to schedule a consultation. Weekly appointment times are set aside for this vein clinic, making access easier and quicker to meet with our vein doctors. Please be sure to mention the Saint Francis Vein Clinic with Dr. Michael Spain when calling.

Learn More About Cardiology Care at Saint Francis Health System

Cardiology services are available at many locations including Tulsa and Muskogee. To find a cardiology location or specialist near you, search our online directories or call Saint Francis HealthLink at 918-488-6688.