It seems that women are typically recognized as patients most likely to have varicose veins. Surprisingly, 40% of varicose vein sufferers are male. Another misconception concerning venous disease is that surgery is merely cosmetic in nature; varicose veins actually cause pain and side effects that impact quality of life. Contact our vein treatment center in Orlando, Florida Vein Care, if you notice swelling in your lower limbs, tired or heavy legs, pain or discomfort in either leg, or bulging veins, which are all signs of venous disease.
The treatment of varicose veins can be categorized with two approaches: conservative and surgical. Conservative methods include weight loss and moderate exercise, avoiding standing or sitting for extended periods, and wearing compression stockings. If these methods do not alleviate a substantial amount of discomfort, surgery may be a more appropriate answer. Fortunately, venous disease surgery is generally performed in-office using a localized anesthesia, and most patients are able to walk out of the office with a significant reduction in pain. The following in-office surgical procedures are available if conservative methods are ineffective.
- Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes a heat laser to shrink bulging veins. Blood is re-routed through nearby veins once the affected vein is shrunk, thereby relieving pressure and pain while maintaining circulation.
- Phlebectomy removes veins via small incisions under the skin’s surface. Recommended for patients with medium-sized veins, phlebectomy is minimally invasive and can be performed under local anesthesia.
- Sclerotherapy fills veins with an FDA-approved medicine, causing them to close. Patients with surface, deep, or spider veins may benefit from this procedure.
- Vein microsurgery is an option for patients with varicose veins too large for sclerotherapy. The physician makes several small incisions along the site of varicose or spider veins and gently removes the veins. Also, microsurgery requires no stitches.
Following most in-office procedures, patients are encouraged to participate in low-impact exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. These activities may include walking, bike riding, golfing, or any other exercise that does not over-stress the cardiovascular system. Normal activities may commence two weeks or sooner after most surgeries.
Contact the vein treatment center in Orlando, Florida Vein Care, at (407) 805-8989 to schedule an appointment to determine the best course of treatment for your venous disease. Live your life to its fullest without the impediment of varicose veins.