How to Know Which Vein Treatment You Need

Understanding Your Symptoms and Conditions

• Pain and Discomfort: Note any pain or discomfort in your legs, particularly if it worsens with standing or sitting for long periods.
• Visible Veins: Observe any visible varicose or spider veins. Varicose veins are large, raised, and swollen blood vessels, while spider veins are smaller and closer to the skin’s surface.
• Swelling: Check for any swelling in your legs, especially towards the end of the day or after prolonged periods of standing/sitting.
• Skin Changes: Look for any color changes, itchiness, or skin thickening in the leg and ankle areas.

Document Your Vein Health History:

• Consider any previous vein treatments or consultations.
• Note any family history of vein diseases.

Choosing Between Treatments

Vein Closure (Endovenous Ablation):

• Indications: Best for larger varicose veins and when there’s significant venous reflux (blood flowing backward through the veins).
• Method: Heat (laser or radiofrequency) is used to close off the affected vein.
• Ideal Candidates: Individuals with significant varicose veins causing pain, swelling, or leg fatigue.

Varicose Vein Treatment:

• Depending on the severity and type of varicose veins, this category can include multiple methods, such as laser treatments, vein stripping, or ambulatory phlebectomy.

Sclerotherapy

• Indications: Typically used for smaller varicose veins or spider veins.
• Method: Involves injecting a solution into the vein, causing it to scar and blood to reroute through healthier veins.
• Ideal Candidates: Individuals with smaller varicose or spider veins seeking cosmetic improvement or relief from mild discomfort.

Microphlebectomy:

• Indications: Best for accessible varicose veins close to the skin’s surface.
• Method: Small incisions are made to remove the vein segments physically.
• Ideal Candidates: Patients with bulging varicose veins that are unsuitable for sclerotherapy or where vein closure is unnecessary.