Varicose Veins
What Are Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are abnormal superficial veins that develop in the soft tissue beneath the skin. The veins appear swollen and knotted. The veins are similar to empty water balloons, in that when they are forced to carry more blood, because of leaking valves, become distended and tortuous. These veins are abnormal and do not transport blood back to the heart efficiently; therefore, they can be removed without causing problems and in fact improve the venous circulation.
   

Causes Of Varicose Veins

Many factors play a part in the development of varicose veins.

Heredity — There is a significant relationship between heredity and the development of varicose or “spider” veins.

Age — Varicose and spider veins generally occur between the ages of 18 and 35, and peak between 50 and 60 years.

Gender — Females are effected by varicose veins more often than males.

Pregnancy — Varicose veins may form during pregnancy but may also disappear shortly after delivery. The incidence of varicose veins during pregnancy is approximately 8% - 20%.

Lifestyle/Occupation — People who are involved with prolonged sitting or standing in their daily activities have an increased risk of developing varicose veins.

   
Minimally Invasive Treatment
Minimally invasive vein surgery is the treatment of choice for larger varicose veins to achieve both the desired cosmetic results and to relieve symptoms such as aching, swelling and pain caused by leg varicosities. Today’s surgical techniques for varicose veins require minimal incisions and are performed on an outpatient basis. Meticulous effort is made to achieve optimal cosmetic and therapeutic results.

Learn more about Minimally Invasive Radiofrequency Ablation.
   
Spider Veins
 
What Are Spider Veins
Spider veins are superficial telangiectasias, tiny vessels, red, blue or purple in color. The majority of these veins present as a cosmetic problem.
   
What Is Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is an injection treatment used to eliminate small to medium size varicose veins and “spider” veins.
   
How Does Sclerotherapy Work
A very small needle is used to inject a sclerosing solution into a varicose or “spider” vein. Once the vein is sealed and can no longer transport blood, the body will break down and absorb the compressed vein—much like your body heals a bruise. “Spider” veins do not have any useful function and eliminating them will not affect your circulation.

No pre-treatment patient preparation is needed. Most patients report minimal discomfort from Sclerotherapy.

   
How Many Treatments Are Needed
The number of treatments needed varies from patient to patient depending on the type, size and quantity of veins to be treated. Varicose veins and “spider” veins may require multiple injection sessions. Subsequent treatments are usually scheduled every four to six weeks to allow time for the body to respond to the treatments. Your body will continue to heal and “fade” injection sites for months after treatment.

After your initial screening exam the doctor will give you an estimate as to the number of treatments that may be required. It is important to discuss your expectations with the doctor at this time.

   
What To Expect
Your legs will look worse before they look better. Your body needs time to heal. Most people will notice a dramatic improvement approximately four weeks after their initial treatment. It is important to realize that the best results require patience. Maximal improvement often takes several months and several treatments. There is no guarantee sclerotherapy will be effective in every case. Some veins and areas will need to be retreated. While recurrence of a treated vein rarely occurs, new varicose veins or spider veins may form requiring subsequent treatment. Periodic re-evaluations are encouraged so that any new veins that develop can be treated before they become too large or too numerous.
 
For more detailed information regarding Varicose and Spider Veins
» The American College of Phlebology.
» Web MD
 
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