Varicose veins are swollen, twisted and enlarged veins under the skin that appear as bluish or dark purple colored streaks. Varicose veins are most common in the legs or calves and the lower body. Treatment for varicose veins may not always be required but can be done on an outpatient basis for more serious cases.They can range from home remedies to surgery depending on the size or severity of the varicose veins and the affected area.
Home Care
Treatment for mild cases may be in the form of elevating the legs while sitting or sleeping to decrease pressure in the veins.
Compression stockings may be worn as they squeeze the legs and help veins and leg muscles move blood more efficiently. They also reduce swelling in the legs.
Invasive surgery may be the treatment option for serious cases of varicose veins. Several type of surgery are available.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive treatment for varicose veins. A very fine needle is used to inject a solution into the vein to dissolve it. You may experience slight discomfort when larger varicose veins are injected. Bruising may occur in the area after treatment but will resolve in a few weeks. You may be required to wear compression socks and stockings to faciliate healings of the treated vessels. The healing process can last up to six weeks for small veins and up to four months for larger veins.
Ablation
Ablation is a non-invasive laser treatment for varicose veins. This treatment involves directing bursts of light onto the vein to dissolve it. Local anesthesia is applied to the area before a small incision is made in the skin. A cathether is inserted into the incision and moved to the location within the vein where laser energy heats it and causes it to close and shrink. You will be required to wear compression stockings after treatment to reduce bruising, tenderness, and minimise blood clots from forming.
Ligation and Stripping
This a surgical procedure that removes varicose veins. Incisions are made near the damaged vein, in your groin and your calf or ankle. A catheter is inserted into the vein through the groin incision and the vein is pulled out through the cut in the lower leg. The incisions are then closed with stitches. You will be required to wear compression stockings after surgery to reduce bruising, tenderness, and minimise blood clots from forming. You will be required and stay off your feet to faciliate healing after surgery.
