Have questions about varicose vein treatments? We have the answers. This guide will provide you with all of the information you need to understand your varicose veins and get rid of them for good.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are caused when blood valves fail and are no longer able to push blood through surface veins. The result is that blood pools in veins rather than flowing freely through them, and veins become visible through skin as either dark blue or purple lines or as bulges.
Can You Prevent Varicose Veins?
Some research suggests that genetics may predispose individuals to developing varicose veins, so in some cases, prevention may not be possible. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing venous disorder.
Some common causes of varicose veins are sitting for long periods of time, standing for long periods of time, and excess weight gain. With exercise, diet, and effort to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day, you may be able to reduce your likelihood of developing varicose veins.
How Do You Get Rid of Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins do not go away on their own and must be treated to be eradicated. Advances in modern medicine have made treatment easier than ever, and modern procedures like sclerotherapy and endovenous laser treatment can be performed without general anesthetic and over a lunch break.
How Does Treatment Work?
Each different treatment type uses a specific procedure for eliminating varicose veins, but all options either remove damaged veins or seal them so that blood can no longer flow to them and pool in veins.
But Don’t You Need Those Veins?
Varicose veins occur in surface veins, and if damaged veins are removed or sealed, blood simply routes through other, healthy veins. Whether veins are sealed, removed, or just non-functional (as varicose veins), none of these instances allow blood to move through the impacted veins.
Is Treatment Dangerous?
All medical procedures carry risks, and you should certainly talk to your doctor about any concerns and potential risks before having treatment performed. However, modern varicose vein treatments generally have less risk than old vein stripping procedures because you do not have to be put under during the treatment.
What Doctors Can Perform Treatment?
Many doctors may be willing to treat your varicose veins, but you’ll be best served visiting a phlebologist. A phlebologist is a vein specialist who undergoes several years of education after getting a medical degree in order to best diagnose and treat venous disorder.
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
The cost of your treatment will depend on the severity of your condition and the treatment option you choose. In some cases, your health insurance may cover all or a portion of your treatment costs, and your doctor can advise you on whether or not you’ll qualify for coverage. To get an estimate on your possible out-of-pocket costs, use our varicose vein treatment cost calculator.