Vein Discomfort Does Not Have to Be a Natural Part of Aging

The Northwestern Medicine Vein Center, located at 259 E. Erie in downtown Chicago, is thriving in the location it moved to in 2023. Staffed by interventional radiologists and vascular surgeons, this department treats disorders of the veins, including varicose veins and spider veins.   

The Vein Center’s new space has a calm, soothing atmosphere. In this location they have dermatological surgery on one side and plastic surgery on the other. It’s a quieter space, yet the Center is busy. They have absorbed some patients that were formerly treated at vein centers in Chicago that have closed.  

In a recent conversation, Christina Ellison, Operations Coordinator for the Vein Center, said, “People often assume that as you get older, leg discomfort is to be expected however this is this not true. If the pain and discomfort are venous in nature, there are treatments available to lessen and even relieve both."

Ellison explained some of the procedures they offer. “Cosmetic sclerotherapy is a cosmetic procedure that rids the legs of the veins, often bluish in color, that sit near the surface of the skin mostly referred to as spider veins. Spider veins sometimes cause discomfort if they are large and rub against clothing. In the Vein Center, our providers assess patients to determine if they have spider veins or venous insufficiency, which is a disease where the veins are not performing as they should.” 

Venous insufficiency is poor blood flow and can lead to leg swelling, pain, inability to stand for long or walk long distances. It particularly affects professions such as nurses, flight attendants, and others whose jobs demand they stand or walk a lot. Ellison said, “We occasionally see teenagers who suffer from this. It might be hereditary. Untreated, it can lead to ulcers or increase of edema or chronic pain.” 

Some therapies include the use of compression stockings, increased water intake, exercise, and weight management, but if those aren’t enough, The Vein Center has procedures to help. Doctors often recommend one or more procedures to achieve better blood flow in leg veins. 

Endovenous laser ablation uses a laser to close off veins that aren’t efficient. Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy can also be used to close veins. After veins are closed, the body redirects blood flow to other veins. Micro phlebectomy removes a small portion of a vein.  

Ellison said, “We do ultrasound by registered vascular technicians (RVTs) who are specially trained for veins. The Vein Center only hires RVTs to do our imaging.” 

For an appointment call 312-695-8346 or visit vein.nm.org.