In the United States, it is estimated that 25 million people have varicose veins. By the time we reach our 60s, it is estimated that 72% of women and 42% of men will experience varicose veins. As a result of vein problems, approximately 500,000 people in the U.S. have ulcers on their legs.

What are varicose veins and "spider veins?" Varicose veins are diseased veins that have become permanently dilated so they no longer effectively transport blood back to the heart. Veins in the legs have valves that keep blood flowing in one direction - from the legs to the heart. If these valves do not function properly, they "leak" and blood flows back toward the feet creating a pressure that causes normally small veins to enlarge and bulge. Veins at the ankle and lower leg level can leak fluid, which inflames the surrounding tissue and skin.

Over time the tissue and skin turn a brownish color and become very firm, which may result in the formation of an ulcer. Women are more vulnerable to vein problems because of pregnancy and their hormones - estrogen and progesterone. Some people inherit a predisposition to vein problems while others are vulnerable because of obesity or a job that causes them to stand for prolonged periods. In addition, a clot in a vein can lead to the valves not functioning.

"Spider veins" are small vein patterns in the skin. Spider veins generally do not cause problems, such as clots or varicose veins. They are mainly a cosmetic embarrassment. Spider veins can be injected and/or treated with the laser.

Today, we are blessed with several options for the treatment of varicose veins, which do not require the pain and recovery time that surgical removal entails. Since the late 1990s, we have developed new modalities for vein treatment - laser ablation and foam sclerotherapy. These therapies have made vein therapy an office procedure with much less recovery time and pain.

These procedures require someone who is trained and specializes in treating vein disorders. At the Vascular Vein Centers, veins are our focus! We offer the latest non-surgical treatment for your varicose and spider veins. Our treatment plans are customized to meet your needs and get to the root of the problems, providing you with results that last.

Visit us today at http://www.vascularveincenters.com