Varicose veins are veins that appear very large and prominent on the surface of the skin, typically the legs, due to swelling in the extremities. These veins are more common for older people, pregnant women, and those with sedentary lifestyles. There are a number of treatments available to mitigate the swelling and pain that comes with these veins, as well as treat the aesthetic properties that may bother some people. You can make certain lifestyle changes, buy specialized products for varicose veins, or have parts of the veins treated with surgery.
Lifestyle Changes
One of the best ways to treat varicose veins is to make long-lasting lifestyle changes. Varicose veins are not only common in older people and those carrying children, but also in those who are overweight, sedentary, or those that often wear excessively tight clothing or high heels. Lifestyle changes such as eating healthier, becoming more active, or even just a simple wardrobe change can significantly reduce your level of swelling and pain. However, some of these lifestyle changes can be difficult to make or may not be wholly effective on their own.
Specialized Products
Another option for those seeking to treat their varicose veins is the purchase of various products geared towards those wanting to reduce the swelling, pain, or simply hide the veins. This includes compression stockings that encourage better blood flow in the legs, reducing the swelling with regular use. Some people choose to hide spider veins, a related issue where veins are more visible yet not veins, with special creams meant to reduce the surface swelling in that area, or with makeup to hide any discoloration. If the varicose veins are not fully treated with either lifestyle changes or specialized products, then minor surgeries may be recommended by your physician.
Minor Surgery
There are a number of minor surgeries that can be performed to successfully treat varicose veins. These procedures include sclerotherapy, thermal ablation procedures, and phlebectomies. Sclerotherapy is the treatment of these veins through an injection of a foam or similar solution that will close the veins, allowing them to fade over time. Thermal ablation procedures are another name for laser treatments where the veins are closed with strong, focused rays of heat and light. Finally, phlebectomies simply remove smaller varicose veins. All of these procedures, along with others not listed here, are outpatient procedures that require only topical anesthesia or minor numbing.
Varicose veins are a common problem for many people in the United States, and there are plenty of options for treatment. You can treat these veins with the help of a physician with lifestyle changes, specialized products such as compression stockings and creams, and minor surgery if needed. Always do your due diligence when agreeing to any medical procedure, whenever possible.
For more information about varicose vein treatment, contact a local physician.
Share3 November 2020
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