Can Varicose Veins Affect People In Shape

Vein disease can impact the active or athletic adult but treatment is available.

Varicose veins are not just a disease of older women. In fact, many people can develop varicose veins including men, athletes, pregnant women and those who are generally in good health. Active people are sometimes surprised to see bulging veins in their legs or to feel discomfort.

As you may know, when we walk, our leg muscles pump blood back to the heart through one-way valves. In varicose vein disease, those valves do not work properly and allow some of the blood to flow backwards and pool in our legs, resulting in bulging veins and symptoms such as pain, swelling, tiredness or redness. Athletes sometimes experience aching or throbbing legs after a period of training or activity.

If an individual has bulging veins or is suffering from discomfort, treatment may be required to relieve symptoms. One of our patients, Diane Ebbert, was kind enough to share her story. She came in for a consultation because she was unhappy with the appearance of her right leg and was experiencing significant discomfort and swelling in both legs. Diagnostic ultrasound vein mapping was performed and we were able to determine the abnormal areas of blood flow in both of her legs. With that information, we recommended Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) and a course of sclerotherapy.

EVLT is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. Using EVLT, guided by ultrasound, we insert a small laser fiber through the skin into the varicose vein. Laser energy is delivered inside the vein, which causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. Once that vein is closed, the blood reroutes to other healthy veins. This procedure is done in our office, under local anesthetic. It usually takes 30-45 minutes. Following the procedure, our patients wear a compression stocking on the treated leg. Most patients return to work within a day or two. In fact, many of our patients return to work the same day. “I was shocked at how much better my leg looked after the first treatment,” said Diane. “I actually sat in your office and cried because I was so happy.” (With her permission, Diane’s before and after photo accompanies this article.)

EVLT has the additional benefit of offering the least disturbance to exercise or training regimens. Active and athletic people can get back to training in just a few days. “It could not have been easier,” said Diane. “I’ve had paper cuts worse
For Diane, one of the greatest benefits has been the improved appearance of her legs. “I wore shorts in public for the first time in years this past summer,” she said. If you are active or athletic but experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, a consultation is important. Treatment is easy and will dramatically improve your quality of life.than this!”

Jeffery P. Schoonover, M.D.™, FAAFP, RVT, RPVI

Indiana Vein Specialists

11876 Olio Road, Suite 700 Fishers, IN 46037

317-348-3023