Varicose veins - which affect 10% to 20% of all adults but serve no useful purpose in the body - are swollen, twisted, blue veins that are close to the surface of the skin. Because the valves in them are damaged, they hold more blood at higher pressure than normal. that foces fluid into the surrounding tissue, making hte affected leg swell and feel heavy.

Unsightly and uncomfortable, varicose leg veins can promote swelling in the ankles and feet and itching of the skin. They may occur in almost any part of the body but are most often seen in the back of the calf or on the inside of the leg between the groin and the ankle. Left untreated, patient symptoms are likely to worsen with some possibly leading to venous ulceration.

Varicose vein sypmtoms include aching and swelling of the feet and ankles towards day's end, especially in hot weather. They can also become sore and inflamed, causing redness of the skin around them. In some cases, patients may develop venous ulcerations.

Since valves can't be repaired, the only alternative is to re-route blood flow through healthy veins. SDIVA Vein Center offers a variety of procedures for dealing with varicose veins. Form more information, please visit the Procedures page.