If you have been diagnosed with varicose veins, venous insufficiency, or spider veins, you are probably very concerned about what the next step might be. Has your doctor recommended treatment options or advised you on whether or not you need treatment right away? Dr. Richard Bragg and the skilled staff at Florida Vein Care, the top varicose vein center in Orlando, suggests that you seek a second opinion before you decide which treatment option is best for you.
You are a unique individual and your vein health is equally distinctive. Your symptoms, while they may be similar to another patient’s, are your symptoms. From discoloration, itching, swelling, pain, a feeling of heaviness or achiness to “jumpiness” or a throbbing sensation, each symptom varies in severity based on the patient. Whether you feel that they are mild or severe, eliminating them becomes the driving force that sends you in search of treatment.
Venous insufficiency (vein disease) is the result of malfunctioning of the valves within the veins that control blood flow. The blood pools behind the valves which result in swelling of the veins and all of the symptoms that are sure to follow. Complications, such as deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, may occur if left untreated. Whether it’s one vein or many that are affected, diagnosis is non-invasive and treatment is extremely effective and minimally invasive.
If it’s been decided that you are a candidate for endovenous laser therapy, rest assured that it has become the most well-known of the minimally-invasive treatments used to eliminate varicosities. You will be asked to schedule an appointment where Dr. Bragg or your physician will create a map of your veins in the affected area. This map is used to create a venous flow chart that helps us compile a detailed understanding of your circulatory system that extends below the surface veins to make sure your total vein health is taken into consideration prior to the procedure.
During endovenous treatment, using local anesthesia, an optic fiber is guided through ultrasound, and a very small laser pulse is used to generate the heat required to seal off the damaged vein. As the optic fiber is removed, the vein will seal itself off and the body will adjust to reroute the blood supply to nearby vessels. The body eventually reabsorbs the collapsed, damaged vein. The length of time it takes to perform the procedure, in addition to the number of laser pulses used to generate the required heat, is unique to each patient. The standard is approximately an hour for the procedure.
Following the procedure, you will return to your normal daily routine, but you will be cautioned to avoid engaging in high-impact activities. You will also be asked to wear compression stockings, which will help to reduce the possibility of developing tenderness, swelling, or bruising after the procedure. The need for follow-up is also unique to each patient.
Dr. Bragg is the leading vein care specialist in Central Florida, and his team at Florida Vein Care Center, the top varicose vein center in Orlando invite you to schedule a consultation now to find out if endovenous treatment is right for you.