Varicose Vein Treatment At Cardiovascular Specialist of South Florida
When it comes to the human body, many complications and abnormalities can arise from time to time. A different part of the body can develop slight variations from the typical path, abnormal growth, a slight malfunction, or serious complications. These conditions are prevalent. However, they can be mild and sometimes even non-existent in some people, and they can pose the main threat to others. An example of such a case is the varicose vein.
While it can be mild and overlooked in some people, it could develop significant complications for others. So if you’ve got veins in your body (which we all do), this is a beneficial post that should have your attention.
What Are Varicose Veins?
It could be defined as one of those abnormalities in the human body; in this case, it affects the veins. It is a form of enlargement or twisting of specific veins within the body. This abnormality could occur with any vein in any part of the body. However, it is most commonly associated with the veins in the legs. According to a study by mayoclinic.org, “The regular activities the leg performs compared to other parts of the body. Walking, running, standing, stretching, all of these are said to increase the lower body’s pressure and, ultimately, the legs”.
Moreso, veins are more prominent around the legs than other parts of the body, increasing its chances of developing varicose veins. Spider vein, on the other hand, is most times mistaken for varicose veins. While they are not the same, spider veins are considered only slightly different from varicose veins. Either way, both should not be underestimated.
Is Varicose Vein Dangerous?
As previously stated, the varicose vein is one of those many abnormalities in the body, which could either be mild or critical, depending on a wide variety of reasons. While these abnormalities are considered only as a cosmetic issue in some people, in many others, it could be critical, accompanied by an aching pain that cannot be ignored and severe discomfort.
In some people, these two situations happen interchangeably. Sometimes, it is absolutely nothing, and all of a sudden, out of nowhere comes the aching pain and discomfort. Either way, one vital thing to note is that varicose vein and its variations can develop into fatal problems, especially if not treated soon.
Symptoms: How To Detect Varicose Vein
Mild Symptoms
For people who only have it as a cosmetic issue, their symptoms are different from people with fatal cases. It is mostly not accompanied by any pain at all. Sometimes, it could even go unnoticed in some not so observant people.
Here are specific symptoms to spot it regardless.
- Odd-looking vein around the legs. It could appear twisted or swollen. Note that while it is common to the legs, it could also be on other parts of the body.
- Veins tainted dark purple or blue.
Serious Symptoms
These symptoms are, most times, accompanied by pain and discomfort. They include:
- Discoloration of the skin around the affected area
- Intense pain or discomfort after sitting or standing for a long time
- Burning, cramping, itching, or swelling in the lower leg area
- Heavy feet accompanied by intense pain or ache in the legs.
Causes Of Varicose Veins
While the study is still ongoing about the different variations, varicose veins can occur, and one known major cause is weak or damaged valves. The veins play a vital role in blood circulation, so the leg acts as pumps to return blood to the heart, working against gravity.
Some valves serve as gatekeepers for the blood flowing into the heart. When these valves grow weak or damaged, they can no longer stop blood from flowing backward into the veins, leading to swelling, bulging, or twisting of the veins… varicose veins.
Factors That Contribute To Developing Varicose Veins
While the primary cause is linked to the valves, many risk factors increase the chances of developing varicose veins.
Age
Aging weakens a lot of systems within the body, and the veins are not exceptions. The older you get, the more critical the wear and tear on the vein valves, thereby weakening it and increasing your chances of developing varicose veins.
Sex
Menstruation, pre and post-natal periods, and many other conditions that affect female hormones have been a significant contributor to varicose veins’ development. However, recent, men are highly prone to this complication as well.
Hereditary
It could be passed down the family line as well. A member having it increases the risk factor for the rest of the family.
Obesity
Low body weight has always been a risk factor for many things, and this case is not an exception. Too much weight tends to put too much pressure on your lower body as well.
Stress
When the legs experience stress, especially for an extended period, it could increase the risk factor.
Varicose Vein Treatment At Cardiovascular Specialist Of South Florida
The Veingogh Ohmic Thermolysis System
A treatment that involves the use of electrical emissions of high frequencies to heat the veins. This emission is sent through a hair-thin probe straight onto the blood vessel to collapse the walls and dissolve the body.
Perks of using this treatment for varicose vein
- No adverse effect on the outer skin, unlike some other procedures.
- A procedure that involves little to no pain at all.
- It can be used to treat many variations of varicose veins.
- It is fast, effective, and repeatable.
- Just a single treatment or procedure and everything is back to normal once more.
This treatment tops the list when it comes to varicose veins due to its effectiveness and results.
Sclerotherapy
Though not so much known by its name, this treatment is commonly used globally to treat varicose veins. It is an effective non-surgical procedure that works to minimize and completely treat varicose veins. Unlike the first treatment, this procedure could be done within a range of one to six sittings to reduce pain to the barest minimum, treat extremely critical cases, and get better results. It uses a salt solution injected into the varicose vein.
This procedure comes with a wide range of side effects which may be experienced combined, singly, or none at all. It includes redness, itching, cramps, mild pain, and discomfort, which dies down entirely in a maximum of 48 hours. Most of the effect is gone after 15 to 30 minutes, though. However, if you notice ulcers or swelling, then immediate medical assistance should be sought.
Endovenous Laser Treatment
Laser treatment is used for a wide range of skin conditions, and this particular one works effectively against varicose veins. It involves using an optic fiber inserted to heat the veins and collapse the walls with an ultrasound. The blood or clogs are then rerouted to the other healthy veins.
One downside to this procedure is that it can only be done on people with medium to large veins. The procedure might require local anesthesia and compression stocking for faster healing and better results.
Perks of using this treatment
- The procedure takes less than an hour.
- Little to no pain is felt.
- Walking right after it is safe and advisable.
Activities To Manage/Reduce Varicose Vein
- Yoga
- Feet activities (running, walking, and stretching)
- Changing sitting or standing positions
- Maintaining a healthy diet.
- Watch your weight
Conclusion
Exercise and healthier waking habits, and wearing compressed socks can reduce the effects of varicose vein. While treatment for varicose vein exists, these activities can effectively reduce risk factors and chances of developing varicose veins.
A varicose vein is not deadly and can be treated with both surgical and non-surgical procedures. If you notice any symptoms pointing in the critical direction, do not hesitate to contact us or book an appointment!