The heart pumps blood through your arteries to deliver oxygen and other nutrients to the tissues throughout. Once the oxygen is depleted, the blood is returned to the heart and lungs to be replenished. Since the blood in the lower legs must work against gravity to make its way back to the heart, muscle contractions aid in pushing the blood upward. One-way valves in the calves of the legs allow blood to be pushed upward and then close to prevent it from flowing back down. When these valves stop functioning properly, the blood is able to fall back down into the lower leg where it pools and causes more damage to the vein. Increased pressure causes more damage to the vein, leading to the appearance of large twisted, bulging varicose veins.
Once varicose veins develop, they will not go away on their own. The vascular specialist at our Hackensack vein center can use non-invasive or minimally-invasive treatment to permanently rid you of varicose veins.
Anyone can develop varicose veins but those with certain risk factors are most likely to develop them during their lifetime. Women over the age of 55 are at the greatest risk. Pregnancy, being overweight, standing or sitting for long periods, and a family history of vein disease also make you a more likely candidate for developing varicose veins and other types of vein disease.
Anyone with an increased risk or who is already exhibiting early signs of vein disease should see a vascular specialist in Hackensack for an evaluation. We have the most advanced equipment and leading vascular surgeons to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and the necessary treatment to restore your vascular health.