Orange County Varicose Veins

Unfortunately, for about half of the population in Orange County, varicose veins are an unwelcome side effect of growing older. These bulging, blue veins may be more than just unsightly annoyances - they can cause pain, discomfort, and may even signal a serious medical condition.

Dr. Richard J. Fischel and his partner, Dr. John P. Maurice are highly trained vascular surgeons who specialize in the treatment of abnormal veins in Orange County, California. They offer advanced treatment options for varicose veins at their office in Newport Beach.

To learn more about varicose veins and how to treat them, click here to request a consultation with one of our vascular disease specialists.

Description, Causes and Symptoms of Varicose Veins

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, raised blood vessels that tend to be dark blue in color. They generally develop in the legs and ankles, and they may have a twisted, rope-like appearance. They differ from spider veins in their larger diameter and raised presentation. Click here to view photos of varicose veins both before and after treatment.

Causes of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are the result of vein walls that have weakened due to pressure from accumulated blood. Normally, blood flows efficiently toward the heart, regulated by one-way valves in the veins. When these valves do not work properly - a condition called venous insufficiency - the blood may flow backward, pooling in the vein and building up pressure against the vein wall, causing the knotted, twisting veins.

An estimated 30 to 60% of adults have varicose veins, and they occur more in women than in men. Other factors which may predispose you to varicose veins include:

• Occupations that involve prolonged standing
• Obesity
• Hormonal influences such as pregnancy, menopause, and the use of birth control pills
• History of blood clots
• Conditions which cause increased blood pressure in the abdomen, such as constipation or tumors

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Some people experience only cosmetic symptoms with their varicose veins, while others may experience aching and cramping in the legs. Other commonly reported symptoms include fatigue, throbbing, tingling, and heaviness in the legs. Varicose veins may also cause changes in skin color (stasis pigmentation), especially around the ankle. Ulceration or inflammation of the skin may also occur, as well as a condition called thrombophlebitis. This is when the vein forms a painful blood clot and inflammation develops near the surface of the skin. Though usually not a serious medical problem, varicose veins may be a sign of a blockage in the deeper veins, called deep vein thrombosis.

The Next Step

For women and men in Orange County, varicose veins needn't cause you discomfort, embarrassment, and pain. Treatment is safer and more effective than ever before. Drs. Fischel and Maurice will not only treat the unsightly surface veins, but they will address the underlying issue as well.

If you would like to find out more about treatment options, click here to request a consultation with one of our vascular surgeons, specializing in the treatment of varicose veins in Orange County, California. Or you can call our offices at 714-954-0270 to schedule an appointment.