How To Treat Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are blood vessels with an irregular shape that dilates when the artery walls weaken . They can be greenish, blue or purple. Some are also surrounded by small red capillaries, also known as cobwebs. In this article you can learn more about how to treat varicose veins.

Both varicose veins and cobwebs can occur anywhere on the body. However, they are most common on the legs and in the pelvic area .

Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Noticeable blue, purple or green color over the years
• Cramps in the legs
• Pain in the back of the knee
• Itching in the surrounding area
• Exhaustion

• Wound
• A brownish skin tone

Why are they formed?

They occur when healthy veins become inflamed and prevent the blood from flowing normally .

The blood usually flows through the veins to the heart. However, it is unknown exactly why the blood is blocked, although there are certain factors that increase the risk:

• Gener
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Hormonal changes
• To stand for extended periods
• To wear clothes that are too tight

Diagnosis

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is best to consult a doctor for a checkup. After the examination, an ultrasound will be performed to see how the blood moves. The ultrasound allows them to see both superficial and deep veins . Fortunately, not all varicose veins require medical treatment . This applies as long as they are not a nuisance in your daily life.

You should be concerned if:

• They prevent you from walking or standing for long periods of time
• It’s sore
• The feet and ankles swell up

Wounds are difficult to judge, because they can occur due to stasis, which means that the veins swell so that the blood does not flow as normal. The problem with this is that the skin does not get enough oxygen, and thus wounds are formed .

In addition, phlebitis (varicose veins) and thrombosis (blood clots in the veins) may develop .

How can you treat varicose veins?

One of the most common ways to treat varicose veins is non-surgical and is called sclerotherapy. The treatment consists of an injection of a saline solution, which causes the veins to contract . That is, when the blood is stopped in the blood vessel, the vein no longer works and the injection causes it to “disappear”.

But what happens to the blood then? The next healthy year takes over the job of transporting the blood to the heart. Thus, normal blood circulation is restored. However, you should be aware that sclerotherapy takes place in several sessions : an average of 3 injections per year.

How does it work?

Up to 40 veins can be treated in one session. Afterwards, you need 4-6 weeks of rest for them to heal. During this time period, it is recommended to wear supportive socks. Other veins can be treated during the rest period, but never the same years.

How does it feel?

It is of course a bit uncomfortable at first, like a small needle stick. Some people experience side effects such as:

• Mild inflammation
• Bruises
• Itch
• Red color in the skin
• Pain

Moderate exercise is recommended for faster recovery. The good news is that treated veins disappear within 6 months, and rarely reappear . We must point out that sclerotherapy does not prevent new varicose veins. It only removes those who are already there .

Are there alternatives?

Here are some alternative ways to treat varicose veins:

• Use of intense, pulsating light . This requires 1 to 6 sessions.
• Laser treatment of the small blood vessels in the face and legs.
• Ligation of veins : This is a surgical procedure where an incision is made in the skin, before the veins are removed or tied.
• Radiofrequency ablation : The energy from radio frequencies is used to close an artery, via a catheter.

How can I prevent them?

• Do not stay in the sun for long periods of time.
• Raise your legs above your body for a few minutes before bedtime.
• If you are on your feet a lot, it is a good idea to stop to stretch every two hours.
• Wear compression socks.
• Eat on a balanced diet to control your weight.
• Do not drink alcohol or smoke.
• Be careful with sudden temperature changes.
• Perform some physical exercise, at least 3 times a week and half an hour at a time.
• It is not advisable to wear nylon socks or corsets.
• Do not sit with your legs crossed.