You're So Vein

Mix together a genetic predisposition (thanks, Dad and Grandma!) and sprinkle in 4 pregnancies in less than 8 years (with 3 weighing 8- 10 pounds) and you've got a recipe for some varicose vein issues. Despite keeping my weight in check and regular exercise, my veins were looking mighty bulbous. My left leg has always looked like a road map because I have fair skin, but once it started looking like a relief map, I started looking at my options. ;)

Course it wasn't just for cosmetic reasons. The veins itched a lot, and they also felt uncomfortable... kind of a heavy, congested feeling if I stood a lot, sort of like you feel after a hard workout.

The Doctor said it was a perfect case for sclerotherapy, which I had on Monday. It was nothing much at all. The Doctor injects a saline solution into the vein and several days later, the pressure causes the vein to collapse. (Apparently you don't need these superficial veins, they're the ones that are removed if you have heart bypass surgery. Besides, they already aren't working!)

Two days later - despite the Ace bandages itching me, I can't tell I had anything done. There's no discomfort at all, just a tiny bit of bruising. My leg already looks better. It will take several more days for the veins to disappear completely.

Just in time for shorts weather!