Vein Care - How to Get Rid of Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
Varicose veins and spider veins are often unsightly, but they can also cause pain. The condition is caused by poorly functioning one-way valves that allow blood to reverse direction when you stand up, creating excess pressure in the veins and causing them to elongate and dilate. This creates the characteristic rope-like appearance and symptoms of varicose veins.
The most common symptom of varicose veins is swelling and redness of the affected area. Some people experience a feeling of heaviness in the legs, while others develop skin ulcers or sores. Varicose veins can also lead to a condition called superficial thrombophlebitis (throm-BOP-hee-bit-IS), where blood clots form in the vein close to the surface of the skin.
Many treatments are available at Center For Advanced Vein Care to eliminate or reduce the appearance of varicose and spider veins, and in some cases the underlying cause of the symptoms can be treated too. Some of these treatments are minimally invasive, while others require a surgical procedure. The treatments that are most effective for relieving varicose and spider veins generally involve removing or closing the affected veins so they can no longer function as a source of pressure or blood flow.
Minimally invasive vein treatments are usually covered by health insurance, especially if they are considered medically necessary. Our insurance concierge can help you determine if your treatment is eligible for coverage.
Some of the most commonly used treatments include sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation, and radiofrequency vascular therapy. In sclerotherapy, a doctor injects a chemical into small- and medium-sized varicose veins that causes the vein walls to seal over time, after which they disappear from view. The vein will be replaced by healthy nearby veins that redirect blood flow.
Endovenous ablation is a minimally invasive procedure done under local anesthesia. A thin tube, or catheter, is inserted into the affected vein. The catheter delivers heat to the vein wall, which causes it to collapse and seal shut. It's usually done in an outpatient or office setting.
Radiofrequency vascular therapy is typically performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. A catheter is inserted into the affected vein, and a special probe sends short energy bursts to the vein wall. This causes the vein to heat and seal shut. The vein will eventually disappear from view and be reabsorbed by the body.
Other less invasive approaches to managing varicose and spider veins include wearing compression stockings all day, elevating your legs when sitting or lying down, exercising regularly, and avoiding tight clothing on your waistline and thighs. In addition, you can try a natural treatment, such as butcher's broom, which has ruscogenin, a compound that helps prevent blood clots and improves circulation.
The staff at Center For Advanced Vein Care provides men and women with safe, effective, and highly successful treatments for the removal of visible and painful varicose veins. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.