MeritCare Vein Services
Tired of hiding your legs? If you've been living
with the discomfort and embarrassment of
varicose veins, you're not alone. Varicose
veins afflict 40 million Americans, making it one of
the most prevalent diseases affecting both men
and women. But there is hope – with MeritCare's
help, you can beat varicose veins and gain the
confidence you need to finally show off your legs.
What are varicose veins?
Your veins are a vital part of your vascular system – carrying blood to all extremities of your body. For a variety of reasons including hormonal factors, heredity and age, veins sometimes fail to properly return blood to the heart. This causes blood to gather in the veins, stretching their thin elastic walls and bulging under the skin's surface. These enlarged veins, usually a quarter inch or more in diameter, are called varicose veins. More than just unsightly, varicose veins are often painful, too.
Common symptoms of varicose veins include:
- Fatigue
- Leg heaviness
- Burning
- Throbbing
- Aching
- Itching
- Cramping
- Restlessness
If left untreated, severe varicose veins can damage the skin, lead to eczema or even cause inflammation and ulcerations that can be very difficult to treat.
Patient Stories
Read more about how Vein Services has benefitted people around the region: