Age
-venous disease becomes more common as we age.

Sex
-women are much more likely to develop varicosities because of hormonal changes during pregnancy. Female hormones promote vein relaxation leading to insufficiency.

Genetics
-if you have family members with venous disease you are at a higher risk of also developing varicosities.

Obesity
-increases pressure on veins. Standing or sitting for long periods of time.

Varicose veins are larger, bulging veins which are usually caused by insufficiency of the great saphenous vein ( a superficial vein on the inside of the thigh and calf). This reflux is detected by duplex ultrasound performed in our vascular lab. These bulging veins can be symptomatic, resulting in pain, edema, skin discoloration and even elceration.

Spider veins are smaller veins and are only a cosmetic concern. They do not typically cause pain or lead to other major complications, but they can be a sign that there is a problem with the deeper system. If this is a concern, you physician will order an ultrasound to rule out reflux in the deeper system.

-Pain
-Leg Swelling/heaviness
-Itching
-Burning
-Night Cramps
-Skin Changes (Brownish)