Get Summer-Ready Legs: Varicose Vein Solutions

Distinguishing Between Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Varicose veins are large, twisted veins on the legs that cause pain and swelling. These veins are usually blue or dark purple and can be felt under the skin. Symptoms may include aching, throbbing, itching, and a heavy or tired feeling in the legs. Spider veins are smaller, red, purple, or blue vessels that are visible on the surface of the skin. While they can be unsightly, spider veins typically do not cause pain or discomfort. They are more of a cosmetic concern than a medical one. To accurately determine if you have varicose veins or spider veins, it’s important to observe the size, color, and symptoms of the affected veins.

Embracing a Vein-Healthy Lifestyle

Making a few lifestyle changes can drastically improve your vein health and prevent the progression of varicose veins. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

• Exercise Regularly: Activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling can improve blood circulation and strengthen your leg muscles, which helps reduce pressure on your veins.
• Elevate Your Legs: Taking breaks to elevate your legs above heart level can help improve blood flow. Try to elevate your legs for around 15 to 20 minutes several times a day, especially after long periods of sitting or standing.
• Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Changing positions often and taking a short walk can help prevent blood from pooling in your legs. If your job demands long periods of sitting or standing, make a conscious effort to move around every hour.
• Wear Compression Stockings: Compression stockings are designed to apply gentle pressure, helping veins and leg muscles move blood more efficiently.

Exploring Your Options for Varicose Vein Treatment

When lifestyle changes aren’t enough to manage varicose veins, it’s time to explore professional treatment options. Here are some of the most effective options:

• Sclerotherapy: The process includes injecting a solution into the vein to make it collapse and gradually disappear. Sclerotherapy is highly effective for treating smaller varicose veins and spider veins. The procedure is quick, typically taking less than an hour, and requires no anesthesia.
• Laser Treatments: Laser therapy uses focused light to target and close off varicose veins. This method is non-invasive and effective for both small and larger veins. Laser treatments can be performed on the surface of the skin or with a catheter inserted into the vein for more severe cases.
• Endovenous Laser Therapy: EVLT involves inserting a laser fiber into the vein to heat and close it from the inside. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that has a high success rate and a short recovery time.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: Similar to EVLT, RFA uses radiofrequency energy to heat and seal varicose veins. This procedure is also minimally invasive and effective for larger veins. RFA is performed under local anesthesia and typically takes about an hour.
• Surgical Options: Surgical procedures such as vein stripping or ligation might be necessary to remove or tie off varicose veins. These procedures are usually performed under local or general anesthesia and may require a longer recovery period. However, surgical options are highly effective for treating extensive varicose veins.

Booking Your Consultation with a Vascular Specialist

Booking a consultation with a vein specialist is the first step towards achieving summer leg confidence. A vascular doctor can provide personalized care and effective treatment solutions. During a consultation, your specialist will assess your vein health, discuss your symptoms, and recommend the most suitable vascular treatment options. To prepare for your consultation, consider keeping a symptom diary and noting any family history of vein problems.

Do You Need Professional Vascular Treatment?

Don’t let varicose veins hold you back from enjoying the summer. At National Vascular Associates, our comprehensive vascular care services are designed to help you regain your confidence and comfort. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with a vascular doctor and discover how we can help.