Schneck plans varicose vein screenings

Schneck Medical Center’s new Vein Center will host a varicose vein screening from 4 to 7 p.m. Jan. 31.

There will be three education sessions at the start of each hour. Free screenings will be limited to 30 people who register in advance.

Many people still think that varicose veins are just a cosmetic issue — and don’t seek proper treatment — and that treating them is painful, the center said.

“People need to be aware that the majority of vein problems are caused by a medical condition called venous reflux — the backward flow of blood,” said Dr. Rick Wiethoff, Schneck Vein Center surgeon.

“The presence of spider veins or feelings such as heaviness, tiredness, achiness, restlessness and cramping are all early-warning signs that deeper veins inside the leg muscles have become weakened, with blood possibly pooling or leaking outside the vein instead of flowing effectively to the heart. Left undiagnosed and untreated, conditions can worsen to more chronic stages, including venous ulceration, skin discoloration and edema.”

At Schneck’s Vein Center, surgeons can pinpoint trouble spots within the deeper veins through ultrasound technology and provide a long-term fix with a minimally invasive outpatient procedure improving quality of life.

Due to federal regulations, Medicare and Medicaid patients may attend the education session but are not eligible for the screening. However, these patients may schedule a consultation with the vein surgeon for further evaluation.

The free screenings will be conducted in the Vein Center just inside the Patient Entrance at Schneck.

To schedule a screening or an appointment, call 524-8346.