Metro Vein Center’s Dr. Ken Hollis- Top Varicose Vein Symptoms And Prevention

About Metro Vein Center’s Dr. Ken Hollis

Ken Hollis is board-certified as a general surgeon. He has been practicing for more than 30 years. His schooling was completed in Wichita, Kansas. Graduating from the KU School of Medicine, Hollis went on to pursue his passions of Critical and Trauma care at MIEMSS in Baltimore, Maryland. Once completing his degree, he went back to Kansas and joined the surgical facility at KU. 

With a strong emphasis on vascular and chest injuries, he soon worked his way up to being the director of the Trauma and Critical Care Surgery Center. Over time, his passion took a new route and he was greatly interested in the growing field of laparoscopic general surgery. Eventually, he went to Houston to receive training. 

Over many years of standing over the operating table, Ken Hollis soon discovered his legs were succumbing to painful venous insufficiency and varicose vein issues. He was strongly against the recommended treatment for his own varicose veins that he used to treat countless patients with himself. The vein stripping process was something he was not going to go through and was determined to find another solution. 

Instead, Hollis went to a special vein clinic and received treatment using a modern-day technique. He was so thrilled with the results that he vowed to never suggest the old methods to patients again. Today, Dr. Ken Hollis works for the Metro Vein Center in Clear Lake, Texas. He loves to help his patients get relief from the painful and unsightly varicose veins. 

What Is The Metro Vein Center?

At the vein centers, the doctors believe that no one should have to suffer from unpleasant veinous insufficiency or varicose veins. They are the leaders in treating spider veins and other vein conditions. They use leading-edge diagnostic and treatment options on their patients including endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy using ultrasound guidance. There are locations in four states including Texas, Michigan, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Their procedures are safe and painless. Treatments can be completed in-office and paid for by most insurance carriers. 

Signs You Have Varicose Veins

Dr. Ken Hollis suggests patients keep an eye out for the beginning signs of venous insufficiency and varicose veins. Varicose veins are large, twisted veins that are visible on top of the leg. Some of the signs to watch for include:

Visible Signs:

  • Veins that appear blue or purple in color.
  • Veins that bulge and twist. They can look like cords on your legs. 

Other Signs and Symptoms:

There are some painful and uncomfortable symptoms people should watch for. They might include:

  • Tired, heavy or achy feeling in legs.
  • Throbbing, burning, swelling and muscle cramping in lower legs. 
  • Itching around the visible veins. 
  • Pain that worsens when standing or sitting for extended periods of time. 
  • Discoloration of skin around varicose veins. 

Prevention Of Varicose Veins:

Varicose veins are often a result of genetics. There is nothing you can do to fully prevent them from occurring. However, there are things people can do to reduce their risk of developing them early or creating additional ones. Improving your muscle tone and circulation can help to reduce your varicose vein risk. Additionally, the same ways you would treat your current varicose veins can be used to help prevent them. Tips for prevention include:

  • Watching your weight. 
  • Exercising regularly. 
  • Elevating your legs. 
  • Maintaining a low-salt, high-fiber diet. 
  • Avoid excessive use of high heels and tight stockings and hosiery. 
  • Change your standing or sitting position often. 

Complications of varicose veins are rare. In some instances, they can lead to ulcers, bleeding and blood clots. It is important to get your varicose veins treated by a reputable doctor such as Dr. Ken Hollis.