Varicose Vein Treatment

Varicose Veins and Laser Treatment: An Overview

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are abnormally functioning veins that appear due to structural dilation or expansion. These twisted and enlarged veins often occur in the legs due to increased pressure while standing or walking.

They appear as blue or purple bulges and are located just beneath the skin’s surface. Spider veins, smaller red or purple lines, may surround them.

While usually not dangerous, varicose veins can become painful and lead to serious complications such as blood clots if left untreated.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Persistent leg pain
Leg stiffness (worsens at night)
Swelling in the ankles
Spider veins
Discoloration of the skin
Venous eczema or dermatitis
Cramping during walking or standing
Shrinking of skin above the legs (lipodermatosclerosis)

Risk Factors

Age
Gender (more common in females)
Family history
Obesity
Pregnancy
Long periods of standing or sitting

Causes

Varicose veins are caused by weakened vein walls and faulty valves, leading to blood pooling in the veins.

Contributing Factors:

Aging
Hormonal changes
Obesity
Tight clothing
Prolonged standing
Weakened valves preventing proper blood flow

Diagnosis

Physical Exam: Observation of swelling in the standing position
Doppler Ultrasound: Checks blood flow and valve function
Leg Ultrasound: Helps detect clots and map vein structure

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins

Conservative Treatments

Leg elevation
Compression stockings
Medications (e.g., flavonoids, anti-inflammatory drugs)
Topical gels
Intermittent pneumatic compression devices

Active Treatments

1. Open Surgery

Conducted under general/spinal anesthesia
Diseased veins are removed through incisions in the leg

2. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)

Minimally invasive
Laser fibre inserted through a small skin entry
Laser seals off the damaged vein
Blood is redirected to healthier veins

3. Radiofrequency Ablation

Uses a catheter and radiofrequency energy
Seals damaged veins
Less recurrence than open surgery

4. Sclerotherapy

Non-surgical
Sclerosant injected into affected veins
Veins shrink and disappear over time
May require multiple sessions
Higher recurrence rate compared to EVLA

Suggestions and Lifestyle Advice

Varicose veins generally do not pose a serious health risk
Pregnancy and obesity can increase recurrence post-treatment
Lifestyle changes and home remedies help manage symptoms
Long-term health monitoring and preventive care are essential

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can You Fix Varicose Veins on Your Own?
A: Self-care helps prevent new veins but won’t eliminate existing ones. Compression stockings and exercise are helpful.

Q: What Are Alternatives to Surgery?
A: Walking, swimming, and cycling improve circulation. Avoid standing/sitting for long periods.

Q: What Happens If Left Untreated?
A: May lead to swelling, inflammation, discoloration, and hyperpigmentation.

Q: Does Drinking Water Help?
A: Yes. Staying hydrated improves blood flow and muscle support to veins.

Q: What Is the Primary Cause?
A: Increased blood pressure in surface veins due to valve failure leads to varicose veins.