Varicose veins are swollen and twisted blue-coloured veins on the skin's surface. They are said to cause health issues like throbbing and itching of the legs.
However, varicose and spider veins need not be a lifelong condition as there are treatments that can remove them in clinics without surgery.
Sclerotherapy
Varicose veins occur when one-way valves in the vein break down, allowing the blood to flow backwards and thicken. Over time, these widened and bulging veins can create a knotty appearance and cause leg pain. They also can lead to venous leg ulcers. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. It involves injecting a chemical into the vein, which causes the varicose vein to collapse and disappear. This procedure can be done in a doctor's office, and the results are usually permanent. Some people may need more than one treatment session. For professional varicose vein removal South Australia services, check this out.
Before the procedure, a healthcare provider does a physical exam and asks about your medical history. They will want to know if you have any recent illnesses or medical conditions, including heart disease and a history of blood clots. They will also take pictures of your veins to help plan your treatment and track your progress. You should avoid sun exposure before and after the treatment, as it can make your skin more sensitive and increase bruising.
A healthcare professional will give you several tiny injections in the area of your varicose or spider veins. Each injection is provided with a fine needle that feels like a pinprick. You will be asked to walk for half an hour after the injections to release the pressure on your veins. You will need several treatments, often weeks apart. The number of sessions you need will depend on how extensive your varicose or spider veins are and how they respond to treatment.
Sometimes, you will experience redness, swelling, or itching around the injection site. This is normal and will not last long. You should wear compression socks or stockings for a few days after the treatment. You will need to purchase these ahead of time, so you should plan on making a trip to the store before your appointment.
The results of sclerotherapy for small varicose or spider veins typically appear in 3 to 6 weeks. More prominent veins might require 3 to 4 months to show results. You might need more than one treatment session to get the best result. Veins treated with sclerotherapy do not return, but new veins can form. For professional varicose vein removal South Australia services, check this out.
If your varicose or spider veins do not improve with sclerotherapy, it might be necessary to treat them surgically. This is called phlebectomy. During this procedure, your surgeon makes minor cuts in the affected veins and pulls them out with a hook. Surgical treatment is generally more effective than sclerotherapy for more prominent varicose or spider veins and might be recommended to you by your doctor.
Many people with varicose and spider veins find that the condition is more than just a cosmetic concern. It can contribute to severe problems, such as venous leg ulcers and chronic venous insufficiency. It is essential to discuss all of your options with a vascular surgeon who has experience treating varicose veins. A qualified vascular surgeon can recommend the best treatment for your needs and goals.
Endovenous Laser Therapy
If your varicose veins are large and rope-like, or if they cause pain, you may need endovenous laser ablation. This treatment uses a laser beam to heat the inside of your varicose vein, destroying and closing it. It is a less invasive option than surgery. It has a high success rate and effectively treats both spider and varicose veins.
Varicose veins occur when your veins lose their one-way valves and become stretched and enlarged. These veins have a lumpy, bluish appearance under the skin's surface. They can also cause swelling, itchiness and sores in the legs. Varicose veins are a medical concern because they may lead to blood clots, which can be life-threatening. Treatment of varicose veins has progressed over the last twenty years. Previously, the only choice was to undergo surgery requiring a general anesthetic and a hospital stay.
There is a worldwide trend toward less invasive treatments for varicose veins, such as sclerotherapy and laser treatment. There are now Medicare item numbers for these procedures, and long-term studies show that they are just as effective, if not better, than traditional surgery.
During a minimally invasive procedure, your doctor inserts a catheter into the incompetent varicose vein and then guides it to the unskilled segment of the GSV using ultrasound imaging. Then, the physician removes the catheter and puts a bandage over the insertion site. Your doctor may recommend wearing compression socks after treatment to promote healing and reduce the risk of future vein problems. For professional varicose vein removal South Australia services, check this out.