Varicose veins are often due to a failure of the valves to close properly, thereby preventing the backflow of blood. This leads to blood stagnating in the legs and causes them to bulge above the skin. The vast majority of varicose veins are found on the thighs, legs, and behind the knees. They can form a network of many veins and can be unsightly when visible on the skin. If you have varicose veins in Upper East Side, your specialist may recommend treatment after a thorough assessment. Here are quick facts about varicose veins.
Symptoms
The first notable symptom of varicose veins is edema or swelling around the legs, leading to a feeling of heaviness. It also leads to tingling and a burning sensation on the legs. The area around the veins can feel itchy and, in a worst-case scenario, can cause bleeding.
What are the risk factors?
The main risk factor is age, as they tend to appear more in older adults than young ones. Even though men are likely to have varicose veins, more women experience this condition, especially during pregnancy. Another risk factor is overweight and a lack of physical activities. If you sit on your desk for long, your legs are likely to swell, and the varicose veins may become problematic.
Treatment options
Although there are some treatment options that your doctor may recommend after a diagnosis, prevention is better than cure. Doctors recommend a healthy lifestyle for individuals at risk as this reduces the eventual development of varicose veins.
However, if already problematic, you can seek medical help for assessment and treatment. Your physician may prescribe certain medications to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling of the feet.
Another treatment method is compression stockings which will reduce the dilation of the veins and promote blood flow.
Your doctor may also recommend sclerotherapy, where a chemical solution is injected into the affected veins and subsequently causes them to close. Laser therapy is a non-invasive option, whereas surgical intervention is another procedure that your doctor may suggest.
What are the side effects of the treatment?
Typically, the side effects differ depending on the treatment option. You may not experience any complications when it comes to compression stockings or practices a healthy lifestyle. However, sclerotherapy, laser, and surgical options may result in some side effects.
The most notable side effect is redness or swelling in the treatment area. But, it is temporary and disappears within 2 to 3 days.
Immediately after the treatment, you may experience some minor discomfort in your legs. However, your doctor may recommend compression stockings at night within the first month.
Sitting or sleeping with your legs raised on a pillow or cushion is vital to promote healing and hasten recovery. Also, walking exercises and a healthy diet can reduce the symptoms.
In addition, some people report numbness of the feet; however, this clears within a few days after the treatment. It is vital to report to your doctor if the side effects persist. Also, you should not miss your next appointment so that the doctor can assess your progress.
Patients can get treatment for varicose veins through intervention procedures by medical personnel. Contact a specialist at Upper East Side Cardiology for assessment and treatment.