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Causes of Varicose, Reticular, and Spider Veins

Veins in the legs return blood to the right side of the heart. There are two sets, deep veins, that carry more than 90% of the blood, and superficial veins, which are just under the skin and on top of the muscles, and account for 10% and eventually empty into the deep veins.

Valves in the veins along with the calf muscles assist in pumping blood back up to the heart when standing. If the valves in the superficial veins do not work properly this leads to reflux - back flow of blood down the vein.

Over time, blood pools causing veins to dilate and bulge. These dilated veins are varicose veins. Spider and reticular veins may also form. Over a period of time the leg may begin to swell; other symptoms of varicose veins include pain, aching, itching, fatigue, restless legs, cramping, and spontaneous bleeding. Non-healing ulcers may form in some cases and these will not heal until the vein is treated.

Incompetent valves may be hereditary, the result of pregnancy, prior phlebitis, or due to injury to the leg veins.

NEWS

May 2012

Congratulations to Dr. Sonny Wong on being recognized as one of the
Leading Physicians of the World!

HEART HEALTHY TIP

Exercise has been shown to reduce heart attacks.

Current recommendation is to exercise at least 30 minutes a day, several days a week.

Exercise can include brisk walking, swimming, biking, and even gardening.