Varicose veins may occur as a result of poor blood circulation or when veins’ valves weaken. Understanding how these veins develop and evaluating treatment options help patients determine which option is best for them. Here are some of the treatment options to reduce varicose veins:
What Are Varicose Veins?
Swollen or varicose veins are thick, rope-like, purple, or blue veins that appear beneath the surface of the skin. They develop when blood accumulates in a weak area of the vein, causing it to expand and protrude against the skin. This causes discomfort and pain, which manifest in the form of burning, itching, cramping, and pain. Some people may also develop phlebitis, which is the painful hardening of varicose veins.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Veins that have become weakened or damaged can swell, leading to varicose. As blood flows back to the heart, vales open to push the blood forward, then close to prevent it from flowing backward. If valves become weak or damaged, blood pools in your veins, them to twist or stretch. Reduced or increased fluid pressure during pregnancy can also cause broken or swollen veins within the pelvic area.
Can They Go Away on Their Own?
Mild cases may be resolved with minor lifestyle changes, including increased exercise, limiting the time spent sitting or standing, wearing compression stockings, or elevating your legs. Over time, these at-home treatment options can reduce or fully heal varicose veins. Moderate or severe cases often need to be treated by an experienced cardiologist. Phlebitis usually heals on its own in two to three months.
Treatment Options
Cardiologists evaluate your swollen veins and peripheral vascular health by checking the pulse in your ankles and examining your legs and skin temperature. Vascular ultrasounds are used to visualize your veins and identify areas of blockage. This helps create a customized treatment plan to restore your vascular health.
Some damaged veins may be treated with medication, such as sclerosant. Sclerosant medications include chemicals that encourage a damaged vein to collapse and seal shut to direct blood flow through healthy veins. This treatment can be used to treat small swollen veins and spider veins. During radiofrequency ablation, a catheter is placed into the problematic vein to send radiofrequency energy into the vein wall. Heat causes the vein to collapse, and over time, the damaged vein is cleared away. The body naturally restores circulation by rerouting blood flow.
Prevention and Managing Recurrence
Staying fit and maintaining your correct weight can reduce pressure on your veins. Walking can help build thigh muscles, prolonging the health of your veins and reducing the risk of stretched veins or damaged valves. After treatment, visit a cardiologist or aesthetician for regular checkups. Seek medical assistance when you notice changes in your veins or experience symptoms of recurrence.
Visit a Cardiology Institute
Visit a cardiology institute to learn about treatment options for swollen veins. A cardiologist guides patients on prevention techniques and treatment methods to help improve their vascular health. Schedule an appointment today for examination and treatment.
