Top Treatment Options for Varicose Veins You Should Know

Varicose Vein Treatment Options You Should Know

Are varicose veins causing discomfort or affecting your confidence? You’re not alone. As many as 40 millions of adults experience these swollen, twisted veins that appear just beneath the skin, primarily in the legs. While they can be harmless for some, others might experience aching, swelling, or other symptoms that interfere with daily life. Thankfully, New Hampshire residents can look to Cardiovascular Specialists of New England for help. We treat a wide range of vascular conditions, including painful varicose veins. Learn more about minimally invasive varicose vein removal procedures and how to address this common condition.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins occur when the valves in your veins fail to function correctly, causing blood to pool instead of flowing smoothly back to your heart. This results in enlarged, bulging veins that may be visible through the skin. Although they are more likely to develop with age, factors like genetics, pregnancy, and prolonged standing can also contribute. Watch for these common symptoms of varicose veins:

• Swelling in the legs
• Heaviness or fatigue after standing for long periods
• Pain or cramping in the legs
• Itching around the veins
• Skin discoloration or ulcers near the affected area (in severe cases)

How to Treat Varicose Veins Effectively

You don’t have to struggle with varicose veins alone! Today, there are numerous treatments available to bring you relief. Let’s take a look at some of your varicose vein treatment options:

Compression Stockings

Compression stockings are often one of the first recommendations for mild cases of varicose veins. These specially designed garments apply gentle pressure to your legs, encouraging proper blood flow and reducing swelling. Patients with mild symptoms and those looking for minimally invasive varicose vein treatment typically benefit from wearing compression stockings. However, it’s important to remember that these garments don’t cure varicose veins; they simply relieve symptoms.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive varicose vein treatment in which a chemical solution is injected into the affected veins. This solution irritates the vein walls, causing them to collapse and close. Over time, the body naturally reabsorbs the treated vein. It’s a quick outpatient procedure with little downtime. However, multiple sessions may be required for optimal results. Sclerotherapy is normally recommended for patients with small to medium varicose veins.

Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)

EVLT is a popular laser-based treatment for larger varicose veins. During this procedure, a thin laser fiber is inserted into the vein, delivering heat to seal it shut. Blood is then redirected to healthier veins. EVLT usually requires local anesthesia but still allows patients to return to daily activities with just a day or two of downtime.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Similar to EVLT, radiofrequency ablation uses heat to treat varicose veins. However, instead of lasers, this method employs radiofrequency energy to target and close affected veins. RFA is virtually painless and involves minimal recovery time, even for patients with large or more symptomatic veins.

Surgical Vein Stripping

If you’re open to surgical varicose vein treatment options, this procedure may be a fit. Surgical vein stripping involves the removal of the entire vein through small incisions in the skin. While it’s a more invasive option, it’s highly effective for treating advanced cases. Recovery may take a few weeks, but surgery is often the best bet for patients who haven’t found relief with less invasive options.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle adjustments might not entirely treat varicose veins, but they can help manage symptoms and prevent further progression. This approach is best for patients hoping to supplement other medical treatments or those in the early stages of varicose vein development. While making these lifestyle changes isn’t invasive or costly, it requires a long-term commitment. Here are a few changes to get you started:

• Exercise Regularly—Prioritizing exercise improves your blood circulation in the long run, reducing the chances of developing varicose veins.
• Elevate the Legs—If you’re worried about small varicose veins getting worse, try elevating your legs to reduce swelling.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight—Take steps to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight if necessary. This lessens the strain on your veins and minimizes the risk of varicose or spider veins.
• Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing—Being active keeps the blood moving naturally. If you find yourself in the same position for an extended period of time, take a quick movement break.

Choosing the Best Treatment for Varicose Veins

The best treatment for varicose veins is different for everyone. It depends on the severity of your condition, overall health, and personal preferences. While online resources can provide general guidance, consulting a medical professional is essential. The team at Cardiovascular Specialists of New England will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate solution for your unique needs.

Find Relief With Cardiovascular Specialists of New England

Varicose veins don’t have to control your life. If this condition is affecting your quality of life, look to Cardiovascular Specialists of New England for help. Our providers are skilled in a vast range of vascular conditions, including stubborn varicose veins. Get in touch with us today to learn more about your varicose vein treatment options.