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Vein Condition

Varicose Veins: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins visible beneath the skin — a sign of underlying venous disease. They affect over 35 million Americans and are treatable with minimally invasive, insurance-covered procedures.

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What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that lie just under the surface of the skin. They most commonly appear in the legs and feet, where increased pressure from standing and walking causes veins to enlarge.

Healthy veins have one-way valves that keep blood flowing toward the heart. When these valves weaken or become damaged, blood flows backward and pools in the vein — a condition called venous reflux. Over time, the vein wall stretches and bulges, creating the characteristic rope-like appearance.

Varicose veins are not merely cosmetic. They are a symptom of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) — a progressive condition that worsens without treatment. Early intervention prevents complications including skin ulcers, blood clots, and permanent skin damage.

Common Symptoms

  • Bulging, rope-like veins visible under the skin
  • Aching, heaviness, or throbbing in the legs
  • Leg swelling, especially after standing
  • Itching or burning around the vein
  • Skin discoloration or hardening near the ankle
  • Leg cramps, especially at night
  • Restless legs or fatigue

Who Gets Varicose Veins?

Family History

Genetics is the #1 risk factor. If a parent has varicose veins, your risk increases by 90%.

Prolonged Standing

Jobs requiring long hours on your feet — nurses, teachers, retail workers — significantly increase risk.

Pregnancy

Increased blood volume and hormonal changes during pregnancy weaken vein walls and valves.

Age

Vein valves naturally weaken with age. Varicose veins become more common after age 50.

Obesity

Excess body weight puts additional pressure on leg veins, accelerating valve damage.

Prior Blood Clots

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can damage vein valves, leading to varicose veins and CVI.

Varicose Vein Treatments We Offer

All procedures are performed in-office, take under an hour, and require no general anesthesia. Most are covered by insurance.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Heat energy closes the diseased vein. Covered by most insurance.

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Varithena® (Polidocanol Injectable Foam)

FDA-approved injectable foam seals the vein — no surgery, no general anesthesia.

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Most Varicose Vein Treatments Are Covered by Insurance

Our team handles insurance verification for you. Book a free screening and find out if you qualify.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are varicose veins dangerous?
Varicose veins are not just cosmetic — they are a sign of underlying venous insufficiency. Left untreated, they can progress to leg swelling, skin changes, and venous ulcers. Many patients also experience significant pain, heaviness, and cramping.
Does insurance cover varicose vein treatment?
Yes. Because varicose veins are a medical condition caused by venous reflux, most major insurance plans — including Medicare and Medicaid — cover treatments like radiofrequency ablation and Varithena when medically necessary.
How long does varicose vein treatment take?
Most in-office procedures take 30–60 minutes. Patients typically return to normal activities the same day or within 24 hours. There is no hospital stay required.
Will varicose veins come back after treatment?
Treated veins do not return. However, new varicose veins can develop over time, especially without lifestyle modifications. Our specialists provide a comprehensive plan to minimize recurrence.
What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins are caused by weakened or damaged vein valves. When valves fail, blood pools in the vein, causing it to enlarge and bulge. Risk factors include genetics, prolonged standing, pregnancy, obesity, and age.
Is varicose vein treatment painful?
Modern minimally invasive treatments are performed under local anesthesia and are well-tolerated. Most patients report only mild discomfort during the procedure and minimal soreness afterward.

Ready to Treat Your Varicose Veins?

Our board-certified vein specialists serve Michigan and South Carolina. Schedule your free vein screening today.

Book Free ScreeningCall 866-692-4907