Varicose veins, which are strongly associated with chronic venous insufficiency, affect about one-third of Americans. However, many people ignore the signs of vein disease because the symptoms can creep up slowly.
The month of January offers a fresh start, so it’s a great chance to make your vein health one of your New Year’s resolutions. The beginning of 2026 can be the perfect time to delve into those nagging symptoms that you haven’t quite had time to look into yet.
Visible varicose veins, aching, swelling, or discomfort after prolonged standing can signal changes in how the veins function. A vein checkup at McWilliams Vein Center, under the expert guidance of Dr. Sean McWilliams, can give you the answers you need. Dr. McWilliams is a board-certified phlebology specialist who has focused exclusively on treating vein disease for nearly 20 years.
Read on to find out why it’s worth prioritizing your vein health with a checkup this January.
Why a New Year Vein Checkup Is Worth Prioritizing
Vein problems often progress quietly. What begins as mild heaviness or swelling at the end of the day may slowly develop into visibly bulging veins, skin irritation, or even jumpy, restless legs that keep you up at night. Because January tends to be a calmer month for many people, it provides a good opportunity to learn whether symptoms are related to circulation.
A vein health checkup can reveal whether vein valves are weakening or if blood flow is slowing in certain areas. Understanding these findings early helps patients take steps that may prevent worsening symptoms.
What Happens During a Vein Evaluation
A typical evaluation includes a review of symptoms with Dr. McWilliams and a detailed ultrasound study of the legs. Ultrasound allows Dr. McWilliams to see the veins in motion and determine whether blood is moving in the correct direction.
An ultrasound study can also identify areas where pressure is building or where vein valves aren’t sealing properly.
Vein studies are noninvasive, comfortable, and help guide personalized treatment decisions.
If Dr. McWilliams recommends treatment, he always strives to provide the least invasive, most advanced options possible. At McWilliams Vein Center, we offer a full range of minimally invasive procedures that close or redirect flow in the affected vein. These approaches are performed through small access points, allowing most patients to return to normal activity soon afterward.
A Resolution That Supports Better Leg Health in Naperville
Adding a vein checkup to your New Year’s resolutions is a practical way to gain insight into your circulation and address symptoms before they interfere with daily life. To schedule your appointment, call 630-474-2600 or contact us to plan your visit in Wheaton.
