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Can Varicose Veins Cause Leg Swelling?

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June 8, 2024

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coloradoskin1

Varicose Vein Symptoms

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Varicose veins are a common vascular condition affecting millions of people worldwide. These enlarged, elevated and twisted veins often appear on the legs and can cause various symptoms, including leg swelling. If you are experiencing swollen legs and suspect that varicose veins might be the culprit, this article will provide you with helpful information and address your concerns in an informative, professional, and reassuring manner.

 

What are Varicose Veins?

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Varicose veins are enlarged, bulging veins that typically appear on the legs. They often have a bluish or purplish color and a twisted, cord-like appearance. Varicose veins develop when the valves inside the veins become dilated and the valves no longer close properly.  These weakened valves allow blood to backup down the leg causing the next segment of vein to stretch and enlarge. Common risk factors for developing varicose veins include genetics, age, obesity, prolonged standing or sitting, and pregnancy.

 

Dr. David Verebelyi, a leading vein specialist at Colorado Skin & Vein, explains, \”Venous insufficiency is the underlying cause of varicose veins. When the one-way valves in the veins fail to function properly, blood backs up in the vein of thighs and legs, leading to their enlargement and the development of varicose veins.\”

 

The Connection Between Varicose Veins and Leg Swelling

Varicose veins are intimated associated with the cause of leg swelling, venous insufficiency. When the valves in the veins are stretched or damaged, blood struggles to return to the heart efficiently and backs up in the veins within the thighs and legs.  This backup causes the veins in those areas to stretch out. This stretching of those veins causes damage to the vein wall making it easier for the fluid pooling in them to leach out into the surrounding tissue causing swelling.  

 

In addition to swelling, this process causes other symptoms such as pain, heaviness, fatigue, cramping, Restless Leg Syndrome and skin changes like discoloration or vascular eczema. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice from a vein specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

 

Is Leg Swelling a Serious Condition?

Leg swelling, also known as edema, is usually a sign of an underlying health issue.  They can be related to issues with the lymphatic system (lymphedema), heart or kidney problems but most often lower leg swelling signifies vein issues.  These symptoms should always be evaluated to understand to source of the swelling. 

 

It is crucial to seek medical attention if you experience any type of regular, persistent or severe leg swelling.  These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt treatment.

 

Dr. Verebelyi advises, \”If you notice leg swelling or experience pain and discomfort along with the swelling, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve your overall health.\”

 

Diagnosing Varicose Veins and Leg Swelling

If you suspect that your leg swelling is caused by veins, consulting a vein specialist is crucial. At Colorado Skin & Vein, their team of experts has over 20 years of extensive experience in diagnosing and treating various vascular issues. During your consultation, the specialist will perform a physical examination and may use diagnostic tools like duplex ultrasound to assess both your deep and superficial veins.  This will help determine the cause and severity to ensure you understand which treatments will be most effective in treating your swelling. 

 

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins and Leg Swelling

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Treatment for varicose veins and leg swelling depends on the severity of your condition. Conservative measures such as wearing compression stockings, making lifestyle changes (e.g., maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly), and elevating your legs can help alleviate symptoms and improve circulation.

 

For more advanced cases, Colorado Skin & Vein offers a range of minimally invasive treatments:

  • Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (EVRF) and Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA): These procedures involve using radiofrequency energy or laser energy to heat and seal the damaged vein, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins.
  • VenaSeal medical adhesive: This innovative treatment uses a medical adhesive to close the diseased vein, allowing blood to reroute through healthier veins.
  • Sclerotherapy with Varithena foam: A special foam is injected into the affected vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut. The body then naturally absorbs the treated vein.
  • Microphlebectomy: This procedure involves making tiny incisions to remove the superficial, bulging varicose veins through a minimally invasive technique.

Dr. Verebelyi states, \”Our practice is dedicated to providing the most advanced and effective treatments for varicose veins. We have seen excellent results and high patient satisfaction with minimally invasive procedures like EVRF, EVLA, and VenaSeal. These treatments can significantly reduce leg swelling and improve overall vein health.\”

 

Taking the First Step Towards Healthier Legs

Vein issues in the thighs and legs are the most common cause of leg swelling, and seeking medical advice is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of swelling, don\’t hesitate to consult with a vein specialist. The experienced team at Colorado Skin & Vein is committed to providing the most advanced and effective treatments in a comfortable, luxurious setting. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards healthier, symptom-free legs.

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Colorado's Vascular & Aesthetic Medicine

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Danielle Killingsworth, NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Danielle Killingsworth

NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator

Danielle is a Colorado native who brings more than 22 years of experience in the medical field. Throughout her career she has developed a diverse clinical background across infectious disease, general surgery, and pain management — giving her a well-rounded understanding of patient care and of what it takes to create a safe, comfortable, and personalized experience.

As Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein, Danielle combines that clinical knowledge with a genuine passion for aesthetics. She is dedicated to helping patients feel confident, informed, and supported throughout their aesthetic journey, from the initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care.

She believes one of the most rewarding parts of her career is building meaningful relationships with patients and helping them look and feel their very best.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, including her four boys, getting lost in a good book, and working in her garden. Fun fact: she is a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan.

Nikki Moyta, Operations Director at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Nikki Moyta

Operations Director

For over 26 years, Nikki has dedicated her career to the dermatology and aesthetics industry, building her experience from the ground up — starting in a patient scheduling call center, moving to the front desk, and rising to executive leadership overseeing multiple providers and locations.

Originally from Pittsburgh, she moved to Orlando before starting 10th grade and later attended Seminole State College of Florida. Her career in dermatology began in 2002, scheduling appointments for a multi-location practice. She grew quickly within the organization, moving into front-desk and checkout roles before being promoted to Office Manager in 2008. In 2012, her leadership and operational expertise led the CEO to seek her out for an expanded role overseeing multiple providers and locations — a position she held through 2022.

Outside of her professional career, Nikki is passionate about giving back to the community:

  • Community outreach
  • Voted “Cheerleader of the Practice”
  • 1st Place Winner — Miles for Melanoma

With a career built on leadership, dedication, and a genuine passion for patients and the aesthetics industry, she is excited to bring her experience and enthusiasm to the Colorado community. When she is not in the office, you can find Nikki with her Siberian husky, Compass, somewhere on top of a mountain.

Betina Lacson, RVT at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Betina Lacson

RVT

Betina graduated from the Cardiovascular Technology Program at Grossmont College in California in 2020, and brings more than six years of experience in the duplex world of venous insufficiency. Much of her career has centered on superficial vein mapping and assisting in surgery while providing attentive patient care.

At Colorado Skin & Vein, she assists with venous ablation procedures as well as ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. She is committed to quality care at every stage — from the initial consultation, through surgery, to post-operative appointments — making sure each patient feels fully supported.

In her free time, Betina loves Kizomba dancing with her Afro-Latin dance community, and can often be found at electronic dance music shows in different cities. If you are feeling generous, she will happily accept a karaoke room or an iced Thai milk tea.

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Brooke Owens

PA-C, MPAS

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS is a compassionate Physician Assistant who brings a strong clinical foundation, exceptional attention to detail, and a patient-centered approach to Colorado Skin & Vein.

Prior to joining the practice, Brooke spent several years in pediatric primary care, caring for patients with a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. She became known for her thorough evaluations, thoughtful clinical decision-making, and ability to build lasting relationships with patients and their families. That experience strengthened her diagnostic expertise while reinforcing the importance of listening carefully, educating patients, and creating individualized treatment plans.

Drawn to the unique blend of medicine, procedures, and patient transformation, Brooke was excited to move into vascular medicine and aesthetic care. She is passionate about helping patients improve not only their health but also their confidence — whether they are seeking treatment for vein disease, skin concerns, or cosmetic enhancements. By combining broad medical experience with advanced specialty training and a meticulous eye for detail, she delivers safe, effective, and personalized care.

Brooke believes the best outcomes begin with trust. She values taking the time to understand each patient’s goals, answer questions, and ensure they feel informed and comfortable throughout their care.

Angel Croce, Staff Manager at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Angel Croce

Staff Manager

Angel has been in healthcare for more than 20 years. Her journey began in 2004, after her father suddenly passed away from a stroke. Losing him was a life-changing experience, and it inspired her to choose a career where she could help others and give patients and their families the care, compassion, and support they need during difficult times.

Throughout her career she has worked across cardiology, neurology, family practice, and urgent care — each experience helping her grow both personally and professionally. She now works in vascular care and aesthetics, where she enjoys building relationships with her patients, helping them understand their care, and making sure they feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey.

Outside of work, Angel is a proud mom of two. Family is incredibly important to her, and in her spare time she loves being outdoors with her husband and their two dogs — hunting, fishing, and enjoying Colorado.

For Angel, healthcare is more than a career — it is personal. What started as a way to honor her father’s memory has become more than two decades of caring for others, and she is grateful to keep doing something that means so much to her every day.