Varicose Veins: Treatment Options At Pace Hospitals

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that most commonly appear in the legs. They are caused by a weakening of the vein walls and valves, which allows blood to pool in the veins. Varicose veins can be painful and unsightly, and they can also lead to more serious health problems, such as blood clots and ulcers.

At PACE Hospitals, we offer a variety of treatment options for varicose veins, including:

• Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA): EVLA is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to heat and seal the affected vein. This causes the vein to close and shrink over time. EVLA is a very effective treatment for varicose veins, and it has a short recovery time.
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): RFA is similar to EVLA, but it uses radiofrequency energy to heat and seal the affected vein. RFA is also a very effective treatment for varicose veins, and it has a short recovery time.
• Sclerotherapy: Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive procedure that involves injecting a solution into the affected vein. This solution causes the vein to collapse and close. Sclerotherapy is a good option for treating smaller varicose veins and spider veins.
• Surgery: Surgery is typically reserved for more severe cases of varicose veins. During surgery, the affected vein is removed or tied off.

Our team of experienced vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists will work with you to determine the best treatment option for your individual needs.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

The most common symptoms of varicose veins include:

• Swollen, twisted veins
• Aching or heavy legs
• Burning or throbbing sensation in the legs
• Fatigue
• Night cramps
• Itching or dryness of the skin around the veins
• Skin discoloration
• Open sores or ulcers

Causes of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Family history
• Pregnancy
• Age
• Obesity
• Standing or sitting for long periods of time
• Wearing high heels
• Smoking

Risk Factors for Varicose Veins

The following factors can increase your risk of developing varicose veins:

• Age: Varicose veins become more common with age.
• Sex: Varicose veins are more common in women than in men.
• Family history: If you have a family history of varicose veins, you are more likely to develop them yourself.
• Pregnancy: Pregnancy can increase your risk of developing varicose veins due to the increased blood volume and pressure in the veins.
• Obesity: Obesity puts extra pressure on the veins, which can lead to varicose veins.
• Standing or sitting for long periods of time: Standing or sitting for long periods of time can cause the blood to pool in the veins, which can lead to varicose veins.
• Wearing high heels: High heels can put extra pressure on the veins in the legs, which can lead to varicose veins.
• Smoking: Smoking damages the vein walls, which can lead to varicose veins.

Diagnosis of Varicose Veins

Your doctor will diagnose varicose veins based on a physical examination and your medical history. They may also order additional tests, such as an ultrasound or a venogram, to get a better look at the veins.

Treatment for Varicose Veins

The goal of treatment for varicose veins is to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. There are a variety of treatment options available, depending on the severity of the varicose veins.

Non-surgical treatments

Non-surgical treatments for varicose veins include:

• Compression stockings: Compression stockings help to improve blood flow in the legs and reduce swelling.
• Exercise: Exercise can help to improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
• Weight loss: Losing weight can help to reduce pressure on the veins.
• Elevation: Raising the legs above the level of the heart can help to reduce swelling.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain and inflammation.

Surgical treatments

Surgical treatments for varicose veins include:

• Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA)
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
• Sclerotherapy
• Surgery

Prevention of Varicose Veins

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent varicose veins, including:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding standing or sitting for long periods of time
• Wearing compression stockings
• Elevating your