varicose veins
What are Varicose veins?
Enlarged and swollen veins that are blue or dark purple. Varicose veins are enlarged, and swollen veins on legs that look are visible and twisted, often looking like a cord.
This problem is more common in women rather than men. It is a more severe vein problem since it is not primarily cosmetic. The symptoms include a burning feeling in the legs and ankles, swollen feet, throbbing, muscle pain, dryness, sensitive and thin skin in the affected areas, dull aches at night. Some of the factors that can cause varicose include genetics, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, pregnancy, and localized trauma.
Varicose can cause severe pain and more complicated vein diseases if it is left untreated. Various non-invasive or minimally invasive treatments can help minimize and stop the progression. Effective treatments for this problem are Phlebectomy, Sclerotherapy, and Endovenous Thermal Ablation, and Non-Thermal Ablation.
Signs of Varicose veins
Swollen, twisted veins aren’t the only indication that you have varicose veins.
Other signs and symptoms of varicose veins include:
- Large, bluish, or purple-appearing bulging veins that you can see under the surface of your skin
- Swelling in your ankles and feet
- Painful or achy legs that feel “heavy”
- Muscle cramping in your legs—particularly at night
- Itchy legs, especially on your lower leg and ankles
- Burning or throbbing sensations in your legs
Treatment options
Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. It uses laser energy to close off damaged veins, which are then reabsorbed by the body. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia.
EVLT is considered a safe and effective procedure for treating varicose veins. It is minimally invasive, so there is no need for general anesthesia or a hospital stay. Recovery time is usually minimal, with most people able to return to their normal activities within a few days of the procedure.
EVLT is becoming increasingly popular as a treatment for varicose veins as it is minimally invasive and can be performed quickly with minimal recovery time. It can provide long-term results and can help reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
Varithena
Varithena is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat the underlying cause of varicose veins. It is a non–surgical procedure that is performed in a doctor‘s office, typically under local anesthesia.
The procedure is typically completed in less than an hour, and patients can return to their normal activities the same day. There is usually minimal discomfort and bruising associated with the treatment. The Varithena procedure is a safe, effective way to treat the underlying cause of varicose veins and restore a more normal appearance to the legs.
Radiofrequency ablation
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins. It involves using radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy the vein walls. RFA is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed under local anesthesia.
The procedure usually takes about an hour, depending on the size and number of veins being treated. After the procedure, the area may be sore for a few days. Compression stockings may be recommended to help reduce discomfort and promote healing.
RFA is a safe and effective procedure for treating varicose veins. In most cases, patients can resume normal activities within a few days of the procedure. The results of the procedure are usually seen within a few weeks. In some cases, additional treatments may be needed to achieve the desired results.
Phlebectomy
A phlebectomy procedure is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat varicose veins. During the procedure, a physician makes a series of small incisions in the affected area and uses a special instrument to remove the affected vein. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and takes about an hour to complete.
The main benefit of phlebectomy is that it is an effective way to treat varicose veins. The procedure is minimally invasive, meaning that it does not require general anesthesia or a long hospital stay. Additionally, it is a relatively quick procedure that leaves little to no scarring.
Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy
Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. This procedure involves the injection of a sclerosing solution, typically a saline solution or detergent, into the affected veins. The solution causes the veins to collapse and scar, which reduces the visibility of the veins.
The procedure is guided by ultrasound imaging, which allows the physician to accurately target the affected veins. During the procedure, a small needle is inserted through the skin and into the vein. The ultrasound imaging is used to ensure the needle is correctly positioned. Once the needle is in place, the sclerosing solution is injected into the vein.
The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour and is usually performed in an outpatient setting. After the procedure, patients may experience some soreness, bruising, and swelling. Compression stockings may be recommended to help reduce these symptoms.
Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy is a safe and effective procedure for treating varicose veins. It can help reduce the visibility of the veins, improve circulation, and reduce pain and discomfort.
