Varicose veins are enlarged veins that usually appear close to the skin and are blue or purple, but they can also be flesh colored. This condition is caused when the veins in the legs weaken and cannot push the oxygen-poor blood back up to the heart. According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 20 percent of women develop some form of varicose veins, either during pregnancy or as they age. Varicose veins can be treated, and you should always see your physician if you experience severe swelling in the legs.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy works by injecting a solution into the vein that irritates the vein and closes it off. The blood then reroutes through other veins and the unsightly vein disappears on the legs. This works with tiny spider veins as well. The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes and most people require several treatments. This treatment is safe and most people experience improvement with the condition.
Endovenous Laser Treatment
Endovenous laser treatment or EVLT works similar to sclerotherapy, but it heats the vein, which causes it to seal shut. A thin laser is inserted into the vein and takes about 45 minutes to complete each treatment. You may need more than one treatment and less than 1 percent of individuals have developed blood clots. This treatment can also cause numbness that usually does not go away. Some patients experiences soreness and bruising after the treatment, which may be treated with aspirin.
Radio Frequency Occlusion
Radio frequency occlusion is also known as VNUS. VNUS also works by heating the vein so that it contracts and closes. An ultrasound machine is used to find the lower end of the vein. Your doctor will then insert a needle into the vein and insert a sheath. A radio frequency catheter is inserted into the sheath and the catheter then makes its way up to the top of the vein. This method is said to be less painful than laser treatment, and you only have one puncture site as opposed to several sites with lasers.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Ambulatory phlebectomy involves making incisions into the legs where the vein is then removed. There is no need for stitches because the cuts are so small. You will be advised to wear compression stocking and to get plenty of exercise, such as walking after the treatment to ensure that clots do not form.
Transilluminated Powered Phlebectomy
Transilluminated powered phlebectomy is where your doctor will make incisions and insert a small light inside the vein to help him locate the vein. The vein is then sucked out of the incision. No stitches are needed, as the incisions are small. The procedure takes about 30 minutes and is done with local anesthesia.
Vein Ligation
Your physician may perform a vein ligation where he makes incisions and ties off the weakened vein. This procedure cuts off the blood supply to the vein, which causes it to become less visible. Blood will then reroute itself through other parts of the leg. There is a higher rate of recurrence of varicose veins with this treatment.
Vein Stripping
Vein stripping is not used as often as the other methods because it has bigger risks associated with it. This procedure is done under general anesthesia in an operating room. The upper end of the vein is tied off, and the vein is then removed.
Self Care
There are a few home-based treatments for varicose veins. These treatments include elevating the legs above the heart for at least 10 to 15 minutes, three to four times per day to allow the pooled blood to drain. Compression stockings are available in most pharmacies and help the blood flow back up from the legs. These can be worn all day. Exercise is recommended to strengthen the cardiovascular system and promote good blood flow. Weight loss is recommended if you are overweight. Excess weight puts strain on the veins. Avoid standing or sitting for too long because this impedes to the heart. Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight because this, too, can restrict blood flow.
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