Understanding Varicose Veins: A Comprehensive Guide

Varicose veins affect nearly one-third of adults by age 50. They can cause discomfort, swelling, and cosmetic concerns in the legs. This guide explains what varicose veins are, how they form, and why timely treatment is important. Readers will learn to recognize symptoms, understand underlying causes, and explore effective treatment options—from sclerotherapy to endovenous laser therapy. Additionally, we will cover prevention strategies, cost estimates in Toronto, and care options available through qualified professionals.

What Are Varicose Veins and How Do They Develop?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted superficial veins. They occur when the vein valves weaken. This allows blood to pool, causing bulging cords under the skin. This malfunction leads to increased pressure, vein dilation, and visible rope-like patterns on the legs. For example, prolonged standing can trigger valve fatigue, making varicosities appear or worsen over time.

Varicose veins are often associated with chronic venous insufficiency. This condition involves dilated, tortuous veins (often over 3 mm in diameter) caused by valve failure in superficial leg veins. The one-way leaflets inside the veins no longer close properly, allowing blood to reflux and cause the veins to distend.

Common Symptoms and Signs

Recognizing the symptoms of varicose veins is crucial for early intervention. Common symptoms include:

• Aching, throbbing, or burning sensations

• Heaviness or tiredness after activity

• Swelling around the ankles

• Bulging or rope-like veins

• Intermittent cramps, especially at night

• Skin dryness, discoloration, or itching

  
  

Persistent venous pressure may also lead to open sores (venous ulcers), which are slow to heal and may increase the risk of infection.

Who Is at Risk and Why?

Varicose veins may develop due to several factors:

• Family history: Inherited vein structure or valve weakness

• Lifestyle: Prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, smoking, low physical activity

• Hormonal influences: Pregnancy, menopause, hormone therapy

• Age: Natural wear and tear on veins over time

• Injury or clot history: Including post-thrombotic syndrome

  
  

Common Types of Varicose Veins

Type	Location	Appearance
Great saphenous trunk	Inner thigh/calf	Long, rope-like cord
Small saphenous trunk	Back of calf	Bulge behind the lower leg
Perforator veins	Connecting veins	Nodular clusters
Reticular veins	Under the skin surface	Blue-green flat networks

Treatment Options

Common treatment types include:

• Sclerotherapy: A solution is injected into small-to-medium veins to close them.

• Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT): A laser fiber seals larger veins.

• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Radiofrequency heat closes diseased veins.

• Microphlebectomy: This procedure removes bulging veins via tiny incisions.

• Compression stockings: These support blood flow and reduce swelling.

  
  

A licensed healthcare provider will help determine which option is most appropriate based on your specific vein condition.

Treatment	Type	Recovery	Best For
Sclerotherapy	Injection	Same day	Small-to-medium veins
EVLT	Laser ablation	1–2 days	Trunk/branch varicosities
RFA	Heat ablation	1–2 days	Long vein segments
Microphlebectomy	Minor surgery	1 week	Surface bulging veins
Vein stripping	Surgical removal	2–4 weeks	Extensive vein disease

Prevention and Long-Term Management

Preventing varicose veins is essential for maintaining healthy legs. Here are some effective strategies:

• Maintain an active lifestyle.

• Avoid long periods of sitting or standing.

• Elevate legs regularly.

• Wear compression garments if recommended.

• Follow a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight.

  
  

During pregnancy or travel, compression and movement can help support circulation.

Potential Complications if Left Untreated

Untreated varicose veins can lead to serious complications, including:

• Chronic swelling

• Skin fibrosis or pigmentation

• Blood clots (including DVT)

• Venous ulcers or spontaneous bleeding

  
  

Timely consultation with a provider can help reduce these risks.

Costs and Consultation in Toronto

Ontario residents may be eligible for OHIP-covered diagnostic consultations and imaging. Treatment costs may include:

• Sclerotherapy: CAD 300–500 per session

• EVLT/RFA: CAD 1,000–2,500 per leg

  
  

Some clinics offer no-cost OHIP-covered assessments. It is best to speak directly with the clinic for specific cost details.

About Ontario Vascular and Dr. Luis Figueroa

Ontario Vascular offers access to board-certified vascular surgeons and minimally invasive procedures for varicose vein care. Dr. Luis Figueroa has over 10 years of experience. He is trained in techniques like sclerotherapy, EVLT, RFA, and microphlebectomy. The clinic also provides bilingual services to accommodate diverse patient needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can varicose veins return after treatment? Yes, especially if underlying issues persist. Ongoing care helps reduce recurrence.

• Are varicose veins just cosmetic? Not always. They can lead to serious complications.

• What are urgent symptoms? Sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth, or bleeding requires prompt attention.

• When can I resume activity? Most people return to light activity the same day and full routines within 1–2 weeks.

  
  

Note: This blog is for educational purposes only. It does not offer medical advice. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for personal health concerns or treatment options.