Thousands of people every year are considering getting treatment for their varicose veins.

Varicose veins aren't just a cosmetic concern. They can also pose a health risk and are associated with the development of skin ulcers; phlebitis, which is an inflammation of the vein; or like in Tom Booth's case, blood clots. "My leg went from normal size to that big, in an hour and a half and there's severe pain that goes along with it."

Vascular surgeon Abraham Sadighi says, "Probably a significant number of patients who have varicose veins are symptomatic from it."

In the "old days" varicose veins used to be stripped, which involved an incision in the skin to remove or tie off blood vessels. Fortunately for Tom there's a new technique available and it uses lasers. "The surgery's very easy. They localize your leg and they give you a little shot of Novocain in your leg and they put this laser in the vein and when they pull it out, it's closed the vein off."

Dr. Sadighi also says "So therefore you get rid of the function of the vein without having to strip and remove the vein."

After this procedure more than 90% of symptoms are alleviated or even gone for good. Tom and his wife really look forward to that. "We enjoyed dancing and stuff so much before. For three years, no dancing. I'm ready to go."

Although varicose veins are very common, it's important for you to know that it's not normal to have them, and it's not necessary that you live with them.

There are also injection therapies available to treat this condition. If you want to get your varicose veins treated talk to your doctor about what type of treatment is appropriate for you.