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How to Know When You Should Seek Treatment for Varicose Veins

If you struggle with varicose veins, you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world live with this common affliction. But when these meandering, enlarged veins appear, it’s important to know what steps to take next. 

Although some people find varicose veins unsightly, they do not always require medical attention. When is it a good idea to seek treatment for varicose veins?

Understanding the Symptoms

Varicose veins come with several telltale symptoms that may indicate it’s time to seek treatment. In addition to the hallmark discolored skin that comes with varicose veins, other common symptoms include:

  • Swelling or a sensation of heaviness in the legs 
  • Burning or throbbing pain in the legs 
  • Itchiness around the affected veins 
  • Twisted and bulging veins 
  • Restless legs 

These symptoms are more than just cosmetic; they can negatively impact your overall quality of life. If you start to experience discomfort due to your varicose veins, it’s a good idea to talk with a vein specialist about treatment options. 

Consider the Severity

The severity of your varicose veins is another factor to consider when determining whether you need treatment. 

Mild cases may not require immediate medical attention. If caught early, lifestyle changes may be enough to stop the progression of varicose veins. For example, you might resolve the problem by keeping fit and avoiding sitting for prolonged periods.

However, more severe cases will almost always need treatment to provide relief. Varicose veins do not improve on their own and may continue to worsen with time, causing more discomfort unless properly treated. 

Understanding the Potential Complications

Although many people think of varicose veins as a strictly superficial problem, these enlarged veins can leave you vulnerable to certain health complications if left untreated. 

For example, a varicose vein might become so enlarged that it ruptures. A rupture can cause external bleeding that is difficult to control. 

Even if they don’t rupture, varicose veins can cause skin ulcers that may take a long time to heal. Untreated varicose veins can also lead to more severe complications, such as blood clots and superficial thrombophlebitis.

Treating varicose veins helps minimize the chance of developing these complications. 

Exploring Treatment Options

Several options are available when you’re ready to seek treatment for your varicose veins. The best option for you will depend on several factors, including the severity of the varicose veins and your medical history. 

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a popular varicose vein treatment that involves injecting an FDA-approved chemical solution directly into the affected veins. 

This minimally invasive procedure causes the varicose vein to collapse, effectively cutting off blood flow to the vein. Once collapsed, no more blood can pool in the area. In the weeks after treatment, varicose vein symptoms, including discolored skin, will gradually fade and disappear. 

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy has the same goal as sclerotherapy: to seal off and stop blood flow to the affected veins. But instead of using an injectable solution, a laser is used to achieve similar results. 

A vein specialist can precisely target and shrink varicose veins with focused bursts of laser energy. 

Microphlebectomy

Microphlebectomy, also known as vein stripping, is a minor surgical procedure to remove the affected vein entirely. During this procedure, a small incision is made near the varicose vein. The vein is then carefully extracted, and the incision is sealed. Once the vein is removed, your body redirects blood through nearby healthy veins.

While this method is more invasive than other techniques, it’s highly effective for veins that are too small for sclerotherapy.  

When to Seek Medical Treatment

When it comes to varicose veins, it’s generally better to seek treatment sooner rather than later. It’s a good idea to talk to a vein specialist as soon as you start experiencing symptoms of varicose veins. 

Treating varicose veins early on is simpler. It can also prevent the more serious complications that may arise from untreated varicose veins. 

Experience the Benefits of Varicose Vein Treatment

Varicose vein treatments are simple and can relieve the daily discomfort caused by these veins. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of varicose vein treatment, you can count on Metropolitan Vein and Aesthetic Center for high-quality care. Contact us today to learn more about our procedures or to schedule a consultation.

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