Dr. Tonie Reincke is located in Sugarland, Texas. She is a board-certified interventional radiologist with over 10 years of experience. She completed a fellowship at the Detroit Medical Center, and she has performed thousands of procedures. During her time at Metro Vein Centers, she has received numerous awards for her outstanding performance.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see under the skin. The condition typically occurs in the legs, but they can form in other parts of the body. It’s a common condition, and usually, the condition only causes a few symptoms. Varicose veins may cause some people to experience pain, blood clots, skin ulcers or other issues. Some people may not experience symptoms.
Risk Factors
There are a lot of factors that may raise the risk of developing varicose veins. The risk factors include:
- Family History
- Gender
- Pregnancy
- Lack of Movement
- Leg Trauma
- Age
- Weight
How to Reduce Your Risk
You may be able to reduce your risk of developing varicose veins by maintaining a healthy weight and getting plenty of exercise. Unfortunately, there are some risk factors that you can’t control.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
The symptoms of varicose veins include:
- Veins that you can see under your skin.
- Swelling of the ankles or feet.
- Painful or achy legs.
- Discolored skin around the varicose vein.
- Throbbing or cramping in your legs.
- Itchy legs.
Complications
Unfortunately, varicose veins can cause dermatitis, an itchy rash. Usually, dermatitis affects the lower leg or ankle, and it can cause bleeding or skin ulcers if the skin is scratched or irritated.
Diagnosis
Tonie Reincke will be able to determine if you have varicose veins by performing a physical exam. She may ask if you have any symptoms. Sometimes, she recommends an ultrasound to determine if you have any blood clots and inspect blood flow.
On very rare occasions, an angiogram may be performed to thoroughly look at your blood flow. If this procedure is chosen, dye will be injected in your veins before an X-ray is performed. The procedure can help determine if you have varicose veins or another condition.
Treatment
The first treatment for varicose veins may include lifestyle changes. If the first treatment doesn’t work, medical procedures may be performed to remove or close varicose veins.
Lifestyle Changes
If you’re overweight or obese, you should try to lose weight. It’ll improve your blood flow and remove the pressure on your veins. Exercising will help blood move through your veins.
If you sit or stand for long periods of time, you should start taking breaks. When you’re sitting, avoid crossing your legs. You should keep your legs raised when sitting, resting or sleeping if you can.
Wearing tight clothes and high heels may worsen varicose veins, so try to avoid them if you can.
Medical Procedures
There are various medical procedures that can be performed to remove or close varicose veins. Luckily, most procedures are easy, fast and painless.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Your initial consultation is free. If it’s determined that you need a medical procedure performed at a Mero vein centers, they are almost always covered by insurance.