While summer in New England can evoke the thoughts of lazy hot days, swimming and backyard BBQs, it can also spur concerns about body image. For people suffering from varicose veins, their issues and concerns are more than cosmetic.
Varicose veins are enlarged veins that can be blue, red or flesh colored and occur predominantly in the legs. In early forms, the veins may simply appear to be prominent. As varicose veins progress, however, they can appear raised above the skin and look like twisted, bulging cords. They can also be associated with pain, aches, heaviness, restless legs, or burning and itching of the skin.
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a progressive medical condition that may worsen over time and can often present as chronic swelling and discoloration in the calf region. As CVI progresses, other painful symptoms like skin damage and ulcers may occur. There are a number of factors that contribute to varicose veins and CVI, including pregnancy, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and heredity.
Treatments include:
Venefit™ Targeted Endovenous Therapy: is a minimally invasive segmental ablation treatment that utilizes radiofrequency energy to provide an even and uniform heat to contract the collagen in the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal. This therapy is targeted at the diseased vein in which the normal valves are no longer functioning properly. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood will re-route itself to other healthy veins. The Venefit™ procedure allows for a quick, comfortable recovery and a return to everyday activities for the average patient while also improving the appearance of varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy is a minor procedure done in the office with a very small needle in which a solution is injected in the veins to cause them to scar down and lose their color. Spider veins are small thin veins close to the surface of the skin. Although these super-fine veins are connected with the larger venous system, they are not an essential part of it. They are generally just cosmetic but can cause a burning or throbbing pain in certain patients. Most patients require multiple treatments to completely cover all areas of concern. This outpatient procedure is extremely well tolerated, and patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.
To find a doctor or schedule an appointment visit Steward DoctorFinder™ or call 1-800-488-5959.
To find a doctor or schedule an appointment, visit Steward DoctorFinder™.
