Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find answers to some common questions people have about varicose veins and venous disease. If you have a question that is not found on this page, click the link below to submit a question to Dr. Caprini.

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Q. Are all bluish surface veins varicosed?
People must not be too quick to identify any blue veins as being varicosed. The veins of fair-skinned people are often purplish in color and thin or athletic people are prone to slightly prominent veins. Varicose veins are slightly raised and appear upon standing. They are most often found at the back of the calf or on the inside of the leg, anywhere between the ankle and the groin.

Q. Does pregnancy cause varicose veins?
Pregnancy does not cause varicose veins; rather, it can aggravate an existing tendency toward the condition. More blood circulates in the body during pregnancy to meet the demands of the developing baby. This increased blood flow can burden an already weakened venous system. The growing fetus can also press on the pelvic veins and hinder the passage of blood. Finally, some researchers speculate that hormones present during pregnancy may contribute to dilated vessels. Luckily, most blemishes, blotches, and knotty veins disappear after childbirth.

Q. Can varicose veins develop in one leg and not the other?
Most patients develop varicose veins in both legs. However, the severity of the varicosities will differ. Some may require surgery, while others may only require compression therapy.

Q. My varicose veins are painless; should I even worry about them?
The greatest mistake is to believe that because your varicose veins are painless, they are harmless. Varicose veins may not cause you any pain initially, but that does not mean that they are harmless. Remember, most blood clots are not painful!

Q. Will my varicose vein surgery be very painful?
The degree of pain that a patient experiences during varicose vein surgery varies from patient to patient. The survey we conducted indicated that most patients thought the procedure to be pain-free, while a few reported experiencing a great deal of pain. The amount of pain is dependent on several variables, such as age, sex, weight, and tolerance level.

Q. How many weeks after surgery will I be able to return to my normal routine?
Based on the information that we have gathered from previous varicose vein surgery patients, the average recovery time is approximately two weeks. Keep in mind that the time period varies for each patient. Those patients who reported that they were walking and exercising had the shortest recovery period.