Varicose Veins: Symptoms, Causes, and How RFA Treatment Can Help

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that typically develop in the legs when faulty valves allow blood to pool. While often considered a cosmetic concern, varicose veins can also lead to uncomfortable symptoms and even serious complications if untreated.

Thankfully, modern treatments like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) offer a safe, minimally invasive solution to improve both the appearance and health of your veins.

What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

Varicose vein symptoms often go unnoticed at first but can worsen over time. Common signs include:

• Aching, cramping, or throbbing pain in the legs
• Swelling in the feet and ankles
• Heaviness or fatigue in the legs
• Tingling or numbness
• Visible blue or purple twisted veins
  In severe cases, untreated varicose veins can lead to leg ulcers, which are painful, slow-healing wounds caused by poor blood circulation.

Who Is at Risk for Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are very common, affecting about 25% of women and 15% of men. Risk factors include:

• Aging
• Family history of vein problems
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Prolonged standing or sitting
• Previous leg injuries

Even if you’re healthy, long periods of standing or sitting can increase your risk over time.

How Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Treats Varicose Veins

When conservative treatments like compression stockings aren’t enough, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is often recommended. RFA is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to close off faulty veins and reroute blood flow to healthier ones.

Here’s how the procedure works:

• A local anesthetic is applied.
• Using ultrasound guidance, a thin catheter is inserted into the damaged vein.
• Radiofrequency energy heats the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut.
• Over time, the closed vein is absorbed by the body, and symptoms improve.

The entire procedure typically takes about 45 minutes and is performed in an outpatient setting.

Benefits of RFA for Varicose Veins

Compared to older vein treatments, RFA offers many advantages:

• Minimally invasive: No large incisions required
• Minimal discomfort: Most patients report very little pain
• Faster recovery: Return to normal activities within 48–72 hours
• Less bruising and swelling than traditional vein stripping
• High success rate when performed by trained vascular specialists
• Often covered by insurance if medically necessary

After treatment, patients are usually advised to wear compression stockings for a few weeks and stay active to promote healing.

Personalized Varicose Vein Care at BASS Medical Group

If varicose veins are causing you pain, swelling, or discomfort—or you simply want to improve the appearance of your legs—BASS Medical Group is here to help. Our skilled vascular surgeons specialize in RFA and other advanced vein treatments to restore your circulation and quality of life.

Serving Northern California with multiple vascular surgery locations—including Walnut Creek, San Francisco, Napa, Pleasanton, Morgan Hill, and Visalia—BASS Medical Group makes it easy to access expert vascular care close to home.

Schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options today.