Varicose veins are essentially any enlarged and twisted veins in the human body. These veins are mainly in the legs because standing upright exerts pressure on the body’s lower part. Varicose veins can appear blue or dark purple, and in extreme cases, they resemble cords on the legs. Spider veins, in contrast, are a mild form of varicose veins, but they are smaller and appear almost at surface level. If you want to get rid of varicose veins for cosmetic or health reasons, your trusted Tomball varicose veins clinic has experts who can help you.
When to Consult with a Specialist
Varicose veins can range from mild to severe, causing symptoms that may make life unbearable. As they grow, the person may itch around these veins, and their skin may discolor. Prolonged standing or sitting can trigger severe pain around the veins, and this can cause a burning sensation in the lower legs.
Women are more susceptible to varicose veins, and so are people who are obese or spend many hours on their feet. These veins can lead to thrombophlebitis (blood clots) and sometimes painful ulcers on the skin if left untreated. Please see a doctor if you have suffered from the above symptoms or are genetically predisposed to having varicose veins.
There are various treatment methods available, and your specialist will advise on what they entail. The following may help alleviate varicose vein symptoms.
Wearing Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are tailor-made, stretchy, and snug-fitting socks that gently squeeze your legs to improve your blood circulation. People at risk of circulation problems are encouraged to wear these stockings to help their blood vessels function better. Compression stockings apply steady pressure to aid blood circulation, so it doesn’t accumulate in the veins.
These stockings are a tried and true solution, but your veins will still be visible. During the consultation, a dermatologist will inspect your affected leg and recommend the right size of stockings and the appropriate pressure level.
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment is effective in managing spider veins and small varicose veins. The dermatologist transmits laser beams directly on these veins, making the small veins fade and darkening the larger ones. More prominent veins require around three treatments before they fully disappear.
The specialist will advise you to keep these treated areas from the sun to prevent dark spots from appearing.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
This treatment involves getting inside the varicose vein using a catheter. The specialist activates the radiofrequency device to heat the vein and make it collapse, after which they seal the area. You will then wear compression stockings and take walks for two weeks post-treatment. If you follow the recommended guidelines, varicose veins will disappear within a year.
Closure System
As mentioned earlier, spider veins occur just below the skin’s surface. A closure system is ideal for treating spider veins by injecting an adhesive to close the vein permanently. After the procedure, healthy veins surrounding the closed veins manage blood circulation.
There are many treatments for eradicating varicose veins so they don’t wreak havoc on your health. We advise consulting with a specialist so they can help you make an informed decision.
