If varicose veins are causing discomfort, swelling, or changes in the appearance of your legs, working with a specialist can make a significant difference in how you feel. At Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy, you receive expert, image-guided care focused on improving circulation and reducing the symptoms that interfere with your daily life. You can also explore additional supportive services as part of your overall vein health plan.
A varicose vein specialist evaluates not just the veins you see, but also the underlying venous insufficiency that often causes those veins to appear. Addressing the root cause of the issue can help you experience meaningful relief and prevent your symptoms from worsening over time.
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that typically develop right below the surface of the skin, most often in the legs. They occur when the valves inside the veins weaken or fail, allowing blood to flow backward and pool instead of moving efficiently toward the heart. This increased pressure stretches the veins and makes them visible.
While some people view them as a cosmetic concern, varicose veins can also cause symptoms such as aching, swelling, heaviness, and skin changes, which may indicate an underlying circulatory issue known as venous insufficiency.
Varicose veins result from weakened or damaged valves inside your veins that allow blood to flow backward and collect. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
Hormonal changes, pregnancy, excess weight, and a sedentary lifestyle can further strain the veins and contribute to their formation.
Your specialist focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions related to poor vein function in your legs. This includes:
Because varicose veins can signal deeper circulation problems, receiving a proper evaluation is an important step toward better long-term comfort.
You may benefit from a specialist’s care if you experience:
These symptoms often improve significantly with the right treatment approach.
This outpatient procedure uses gentle laser or radiofrequency energy to close unhealthy veins and reroute blood flow to healthier vessels. It offers quick recovery and strong long-term results.
A medical adhesive is used to seal the affected vein without heat, offering a comfortable treatment option with no need for sedation.
A specialized solution is injected into damaged veins to collapse them and improve appearance and circulation. This treatment is also effective for spider veins.
Small incisions are used to remove bulging varicose veins, often combined with other treatments to maximize results and comfort.
Patients trust MINT for varicose vein care because:
Yes, varicose veins can worsen over time if left untreated. What may begin as mild, visible veins can progress into more noticeable swelling, discomfort, and skin changes.
As vein function continues to decline, symptoms like aching, heaviness, and fatigue in the legs may become more frequent. In more advanced cases, untreated venous insufficiency can lead to complications such as skin thickening or ulcers.
Varicose veins can increase the risk of certain types of blood clots, particularly superficial thrombophlebitis, which occurs in veins close to the skin. While these clots are usually less dangerous than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), they can still cause pain, redness, and inflammation.
In some cases, underlying vein issues may contribute to more serious circulation problems, making it important to have symptoms evaluated. If you notice sudden swelling, warmth, or tenderness in your leg, seeking prompt medical attention can help rule out more serious conditions and guide appropriate care.
Exercise is generally safe and often beneficial if you have varicose veins. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling help improve circulation by encouraging blood flow back toward the heart. Regular movement can also reduce symptoms such as swelling and heaviness in the legs.
That said, it’s best to avoid high-impact or heavy weightlifting exercises that may increase pressure in your veins if you’re experiencing discomfort. Wearing compression stockings during activity may provide additional support. A specialist can help you choose the most appropriate exercise routine based on your symptoms and overall vein health.
Pregnancy can both cause new varicose veins and make existing ones more noticeable.
As your body produces more blood and the growing uterus increases pelvic vein pressure, circulation in your legs can slow. Hormonal changes also relax vein walls, making them more prone to stretching.
While they may improve after delivery, some varicose veins can persist. Supportive measures like staying active, elevating your legs, and wearing compression stockings can help manage symptoms during this time.
If varicose veins are affecting your comfort or confidence, a specialist can help you find real relief. Call 314-255-2204 to schedule an appointment at your preferred location in the St. Louis area. You deserve legs that look and feel healthier every day.