What are the causes of varicose veins?
Varicose veins are caused by malfunctioning valves in your veins that are unable to bring blood back to your heart effectively as they work against gravity. This increases the pressure in the area affected, resulting in pooling of blood. Although varicose veins affect legs and feet usually, they can also develop on the face and arms.
Here's what happens if you don't treat varicose veins.
Lack of treatment can worsen the condition and lead to leg ulcers and chronic venous insufficiency. Sometimes blood clots develop in the deep veins, which is known as Deep Vein Thrombosis. This condition can lead to other life-threatening conditions if left untreated.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
In some cases, varicose veins cause no symptoms, while in others, they may cause a range of symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Aching and uncomfortable legs
- Swollen feet and ankles
- Burning or throbbing
- Muscle cramps, particularly at night
- Itchy skin over the affected area
- Skin discoloration
- Heaviness or fatigue in the legs
Symptoms tend to be worse during warm weather, late in the day, or when a person has been standing up for extended periods.
Is Endovenous laser treatment is safe?
Yes, Endovenous laser treatment is safe and effective, associated with less major complications and scars. Endovenous laser ablation treatment is a painless and minimally invasive procedure with no scarring. It is performed as an outpatient procedure.
Can I walk after vein ablation?
Yes, you will be able to walk after the endovenous laser ablation. You will get a list of dos and don’ts from the vascular surgeon. In most cases, people go back home the same day and resume their daily activities from the next day onward. People should avoid strenuous exercise.
What are the problems caused by varicose veins?
Varicose veins cause problems like leg swelling, restless leg syndrome, skin discolouration, pain, and blood clots. Patients also experience a throbbing or itching sensation and a feeling of heaviness. They are common and are more likely to affect women than men.
Are Varicose Veins Hereditary?
Yes, people who have a family history are at a comparatively higher risk for developing varicose veins. This condition of varicose veins tends to run in families and women are at higher risk of getting affected.
How to diagnose Varicose Veins?
If you suspect you have varicose veins, you should consult a vascular specialist as soon as possible. Your doctor will complete a medical check-up and physical examination. A few tests may also be recommended.
Which is the best treatment for varicose veins?
There are a number of treatment options for varicose veins. Your doctor will assess your condition and determine which treatment is best for you, depending on the size, shape and severity of your varicose veins. Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is a safe and effective treatment that can treat varicose veins and eliminate venous reflux disease in just one office visit. This treatment does not require any downtime for most patients and provides immediate relief from symptoms with no scarring.
How long does endovenous laser ablation take?
Vein ablation is minimally invasive. It can be performed in an outpatient setting, with no need for a hospital stay. Discomfort can be managed using only local anaesthesia.
Do varicose veins come back after laser treatment?
After the laser procedure, there is very little chance of varicose veins appearing again. However, some people may develop varicose veins even after the treatment. They may require a long-term management plan.