Women's Health
Varicose veins: Searching for less-invasive treatments
These twisted, ropy veins are more than unsightly. They can cause real discomfort if you don't treat them.
Veins are the transportation system that carries blood back from our body to our heart. Most of that blood is returned via the deep veins (located in the muscles), and a smaller amount is delivered via the superficial system (which lies close to the skin's surface). Varicose and spider veins are superficial veins. "Because they're not surrounded by muscle like the deep vein system, they're more prone to damage," explains Dr. Susan O'Horo, an instructor in interventional radiology at Harvard Medical School.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.